Timeline

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In the opening session focusing on the Global Digital Compact, Ambassadors Chula and Milambo enthusiastically welcomed participants and highlighted key logistical details, such as the live broadcasting and availability of translation services. They expressed appreciation to the President of the General Assembly for entrusting them to co-facilitate the intergovernmental discussions and pledged to uphold a transparent process that includes the views of all member states and stakeholders.

Ambassador Milambo stressed the necessity for structured participation, requesting brief statements and setting strict time limits: representatives of groups had five minutes, and national statements were restricted to three minutes. This was enforced automatically to ensure a comprehensive array of opinions within the tight schedule.

The assembly featured a series of speakers from varied coalitions, regional groups, and countries, each delivering their stance on the Global Digital Compact. The delegates, including those from the G77, the European Union, the African bloc, small island states, and numerous national and regional groups, surfaced issues pertinently affecting their collective or national digital agendas.

Despite the diversity of input, common themes likely emerged, highlighting the complexity of digital governance, global cooperation, and the need for an equitable digital landscape. The Ambassadors emphasised the necessity of submitting detailed written statements to the secretariat, indicative of a thorough examination of the input received.

Strict adherence to the speaking guidelines ensured statements were direct and concise, aiding the facilitation of an orderly discussion. This approach was essential for capturing the wide spectrum of global perspectives within the limited time frame. As the session concluded, the co-facilitators acknowledged the engaged dialogue and thanked all participants.

The meeting ended on a note of expectancy for Ambassador Milambo’s closing comments, marking the start of a comprehensive, intergovernmental endeavour to craft the future direction of global digital policy. The initial discussions signalled the beginning of what promises to be an elaborate and cooperative process to define the digital landscape through intergovernmental negotiation.

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The speaker began by aligning with the viewpoints presented by Ugandan representatives on behalf of the Group of 77 (G77) and China, extending gratitude to the organisers of the preliminary informal talks on the Zero Draft of the Digital Global Compact.

The address outlined pivotal areas of attention and offered recommendations. At the heart of the discourse was the call for strong regulatory frameworks, deemed crucial for enhancing connectivity and fostering good international digital practices and guidelines. Such regulation was portrayed as key in creating a more accessible and just digital environment.

Digital identity received considerable emphasis, portrayed as a gateway for citizens to access a variety of services, thus exercising their basic human rights. The speaker underscored integrating digital identity within the wider human rights framework, highlighting its significance in inclusive access to digital services.

The vast potential of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) was acknowledged for their role in optimising public policy implementation, supporting evidence-based decision-making and driving innovation across public and private sectors. The transformative impact of ICT on societal development, governance and private sector efficiency on both local and international scales was stressed.

The principle of freedom of expression online was noted as a critical concern, with the rise of misinformation and online hate speech necessitating digital education as a countermeasure. This pointed to the crucial role of education in fostering responsible digital citizens.

The address underscored that while it is important for firms to establish their own digital space standards, user rights should not be compromised. It was noted that compliance with national and international data protection laws is essential, encouraging a balance between corporate autonomy and legal adherence.

This is vital for protecting user rights, including privacy. In conclusion, the speaker acknowledged the responsibilities accompanying digital freedom, stressing the need to defend these freedoms from abuse and to uphold the right to privacy for all citizens. The concluding sentiment reiterated the possibilities digital progress offers, whilst also emphasising the protection of user rights as central to the envisioned digitally interlinked future.

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Arguments

Global Digital Compact is an opportunity to shape the digital future and progress towards the 2030 agenda.

Supporting facts:

• The Global Digital Compact aims to positively advance the 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals.

• Australia speaks on behalf of Canada, New Zealand, and itself emphasizing the importance of the compact in shaping the future.

The participatory process should be inclusive, transparent, and equitable to bridge digital divides.

Supporting facts:

• The Global Digital Compact must benefit from the participation of various stakeholders.

• It should empower all countries, particularly Pacific Island countries that are currently underrepresented.

The compact should promote digital inclusion and cyber safety, especially for children.

Supporting facts:

• Digital inclusion requires connectivity, digital literacy, civic participation, and safety online.

• There should be recognition of the rights and safety of children in the digital environment.

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The Global Digital Compact has been widely recognised as an essential instrument in realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development goals. It is particularly aligned with SDG 9, which focuses on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17, which fosters Partnerships for the Goals.

Australia has highlighted the Compact’s importance, representing Canada and New Zealand too, in shaping the digital future and advancing towards these milestones. Inclusivity is a recurring theme, suggesting the Compact could play a crucial role in addressing the digital divide, pertinent to SDG 10’s objective of reducing inequalities.

The Compact is envisaged as a vehicle for inclusive, transparent governance, incorporating various stakeholders such as governments, the private sector, the technical community, civil society, and academia, ensuring that digital technology governance is accountable in line with the ideals set out in SDG 16.

The discourse on human rights in the digital era urges the embedding of these principles within the Compact. The dual aim here is to bolster international human rights law and guarantee the safeguarding of these rights both online and offline, aligned with the aims of SDG 16.

Digital inclusion and the safety of children online are stressed with relation to SDG 4, which promotes Quality Education, and SDG 5, which targets Gender Equality. The components of digital inclusion mentioned – including connectivity, digital literacy, civic participation, and cyber safety – reinforce the importance of equitable access to digital resources.

The Compact’s approach to digital public infrastructure underscores the need for international co-operation and building of collective capability, which resonates with the ethos of both SDG 9 and SDG 17. It’s noted that a cohesive legislative framework and governance are vital to prevent fragmentation, but a more detailed exploration of digital public infrastructure is called for.

In sum, the Global Digital Compact is universally seen as a pivotal mechanism for shaping an inclusive digital future that upholds human rights and champions sustainable development. It embodies a positive approach towards leveraging digital technologies to close the digital divide.

Emphasising collaboration and inclusive efforts, it signals a joint commitment to take full advantage of digital progress for societal benefits across the globe, ensuring that developmental policies leave no one behind.

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The African group, in collaboration with the G77 and China, has reinforced its commitment to global digital cooperation and inclusion, recognising these as pivotal in addressing the enduring digital divide. Their statement, appreciative of the co-facilitators’ leadership in digital discourse, emphasised that achieving digital inclusion transcends technological challenges to encompass comprehensive socio-economic considerations.

Central to their viewpoint is the necessity of financial aid, technology transfer, technical assistance, and capacity-building to empower developing countries in digital governance. They outlined the intricate connection between the digital divide and broader socio-economic and political disparities, advocating for any digital solutions to be integrated into broader reforms aimed at overhauling the global financial system.

Several core principles, the African group suggests, must guide global digital cooperation. One is the promotion of a secure, open internet environment to mitigate the digital divide, enhance online safety, and ensure accountability for abuses. Alignment with the African Union’s digital strategy is vital, particularly fostering governance that promotes transparency, accountability, supervision, and the growth of digital skills.

They also stressed the importance of respecting national sovereignty within international digital cooperation frameworks. Emphasising the role of data governance in aiding the digital transformation of developing nations for economic growth, they argued for a harmonised data ecosystem that values bilateral collaborations, respecting national rights over digital territories.

When considering emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, the group acknowledged their vast potential to achieve sustainable development goals and enhance quality of life. However, they also expressed concern over the risk of deepening existing inequalities and called for domestic and international measures to harness these technologies while countering inherent risks.

On content moderation by social media platforms, the group contended that transparency in these practices is essential to tackle harmful content and misinformation. They advocate for a balance between safeguarding freedom of expression and fostering a positive digital environment. On procedural aspects, the African group commended the roadmap proposed by the co-facilitators but sought more specifics on the approach, including the scope, timeline, and consultation methodologies for future meetings.

In closing, the group restated their commitment to an active role in shaping a global digital compact. They underscored the anticipated benefits of digital inclusion and collaboration for sustainable development and narrowing the digital divide. Embracing future dialogues and negotiations, they asserted their readiness to collaborate with all members and stakeholders.

Their vision is an equitable digital future that recognises the unique challenges of developing countries – a future that is inclusive, secure, and universally advantageous.

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The Brazilian delegation aligns with Uganda’s representation for the G77, offering a comprehensive view on shaping Global Digital Compacts (GDCs). The delegation stresses the need for inclusivity and transparency in digital governance frameworks through GDCs, grounding their foundations in the outcomes of the Geneva and Tunis phases of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).

These principles are highlighted as crucial due to their technology-neutral stance and future applicability. Brazil strongly advocates for the prioritisation of development issues within GDCs, arguing that these should be at the core of global digital governance discussions. The importance of multilateralism is emphasised, as well as the pivotal role of states in both guiding and implementing internet and digital policies, while still recognising the importance of multi-stakeholder participation.

To address digital inequality, the delegation calls for explicit commitments to assist developing countries through financial resources, technology, and capacity-building in order to achieve not only universal connectivity but also ‘meaningful digital inclusion’. This approach underlines the empowerment of citizens, with attention to issues of gender and race.

The Brazilian delegation asserts the necessity of ensuring privacy and personal data protection within the digital realm, in alignment with the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Concerns are raised about the negative influence of disinformation on democracy, human rights, and trust, presenting this as an issue that demands strategic intervention.

The delegation points to the urgency of this issue in the context of rapidly advancing and adopting artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The potential impacts of AI on the labour market, especially within developing countries, are addressed by Brazil as a significant concern.

Suggestions are made that GDCs should incorporate strategies to alleviate possible adverse effects of AI on employment. In advocating for international collaboration, Brazil endorses the establishment of an international scientific body or forum dedicated to building consensus on digital technology development, including AI, and offering recommendations for understanding and managing its socio-economic impacts.

In summary, Brazil’s stance on the formation of GDCs is centred on equitable digital development, effective multilateral governance, and a deep understanding of the societal challenges introduced by advancements in digital technology. Their analysed contribution calls for a progressive approach that tackles these digital challenges while ensuring the adaptability of policy frameworks to future technological developments.

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The statement under discussion aligns with the viewpoints of Uganda, representing the G7 nations, and Singapore, speaking for small states, advocating for the inclusion of technology transfer mechanisms in the Global Digital Pact, with a focus on the context of developing nations.

It reaffirms support for the notion that equipping developing countries with the necessary tools and knowledge to leverage technology is of paramount importance. A central aspect of the argument is the plea for a pledge to expand the range of digital training, emphasizing the provision of resources in multiple languages to accommodate a diverse global audience.

The statement contends that these inclusive educational resources are not only advantageous but essential to the success of the pact, as they promote a more equitable distribution of digital capabilities. Moreover, the statement highlights the vital need for international collaboration, urging partnerships especially with the least developed countries to ensure their populations, particularly the youth, can access digital opportunities.

It notes affordability as a significant concern and calls for measures to prevent costs from impeding access to and participation in the digital economy. Additionally, the statement acknowledges the significance of distributing information effectively. By enhancing the way opportunities are communicated, many young individuals in developing countries, who often struggle with accessing information, could reap benefits, underscoring the overarching goal of inclusivity and equality.

The statement also draws attention to the governance of emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI), advocating for a regulatory framework that ensures AI’s reliable and ethical application. This is in response to global apprehensions regarding AI’s societal impact, stressing the importance of balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.

In conclusion, the statement delivers a strong message endorsing the integration of provisions concerning technology transfer, multilingual digital education, and AI regulations into the Global Digital Pact. It emphasizes cooperation and the implementation of cost-effective solutions as crucial approaches to bridging the digital divide and nurturing a more inclusive global digital environment.

The various points made reflect a comprehensive global viewpoint on the numerous challenges and possibilities associated with digital transformation, underscoring the necessity for a collective and structured approach. The summary should ensure that accurate, UK spelling and grammar are consistently used throughout.

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China has affirmed its support for Uganda, representing the G77 plus China, in promoting a UN-led framework for shaping the global digital landscape. In its position paper, China presents a comprehensive stance on fostering international digital policy, advocating for unity and cooperation while establishing universal standards to avoid a divided and divisive internet.

The nation emphasises the importance of development within the digital economy and promotes a collaborative approach to address the digital divide. It stresses that digital advancements should be widely beneficial, allowing developing countries equitable access to digital technology. China recognises the importance of multi-stakeholder participation, but insists that any input must align with UN regulations.

With regards to human rights, China supports a balanced view that champions the right to development alongside other human rights, aiming to extend the benefits of the digital era worldwide. In terms of AI governance, China places humanity at the forefront, maintaining that AI should always be directed by humans.

The nation advocates for continuous support to aid developing countries in building AI capabilities and foster international cooperation, integrating AI with sustainable development goals. China refers to its Global AI Governance Initiative as a potential blueprint for international discussions and rule-making in AI governance, endorsing the UN as the most suitable platform for such discourse.

China is committed to supporting the UN advisory body on AI and its guidelines. For a meaningful digital compact, China believes it should be agreed upon by all stakeholders, with a special focus on meeting the universal challenges. It should promote capacity-building in developing nations, addressing the digital skills gap and contributing to closing the digital divide.

China envisions a more coordinated use of UN-based digital cooperation mechanisms to avoid duplicated efforts. In summary, China positions itself as an engaged and responsible member of the global digital policy dialogue, highlighting its dedication to a cooperative approach, inclusive development, human-centred AI governance, and a consensus-driven digital compact that prioritises the needs of developing nations.

Arguments

Gratitude for active participation of delegations

Supporting facts:

• Ambassador Chola Milambo extends thanks to delegations

Acknowledgment of valuable inputs for progress

Supporting facts:

• Inputs and information shared seen as foundation for advancement

Overview of process and next steps

Supporting facts:

• Timeline of consultations and draft outlined from February 29th to end of March

Commitment to circulating a zero draft

Supporting facts:

• Zero draft circulation anticipated by the end of March

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In an atmosphere suffused with optimism and geared towards constructive global collaboration, there have been several key developments in the realm of diplomatic engagement and policy formation. Ambassador Chola Milambo, embodying the principles of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, has extended heartfelt thanks to the international delegations for their active and vital participation.

This positive engagement underscores the collaborative ethos that is essential within diplomacy and international relations, reinforcing the sense of collective advancement. Addressing the contributions to policy development, particularly concerning the Global Digital Compact, aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

Stakeholder inputs and shared information are regarded as the foundational elements for advancing our global digital framework, signifying a commitment to innovation and a forward-thinking approach in international policy development. The procedural update delivered in a neutral tone provided clarity on the consultation timeline, marking a clear window from February 29th to the end of March.

This detailed roadmap is critical in maintaining a structured and inclusive process, ensuring all parties are informed of the progress and next steps within the global governance framework. Additionally, the commitment to distribute a preliminary zero draft of the Global Digital Compact by the end of March marks a tangible advance.

This action resonates with SDG 17’s advocacy for partnership efficacy as a sustainable development driver. Implicitly, it highlights the intent to preserve a transparent and participatory methodology in formulating policies that reinforce the tenets of SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by establishing solid governance frameworks.

The blend of diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, and procedural lucidity indicates a positive direction for international cooperation. It hints at a milieu where expressions of gratitude, recognition of contributions, and meticulous planning merge to guide global policies towards inclusivity and efficacy.

These proceedings depict a global community striving for a united, equitable, and resilient future. The summary content has been thoroughly reviewed for grammatical accuracy, adherence to UK spelling and grammar conventions, and the inclusion of relevant long-tail keywords without compromising the quality of the summary.

The narrative accurately reflects the essence of the main analysis text, while being polished for clarity and coherence.

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Colombia has affirmed its support for the guiding principles set forth by Uganda on behalf of the G77 and China concerning the Digital Compact. Additionally, Colombia has stressed certain focal points and concerns, elaborating on the initial statement to articulate a detailed national perspective.

The Colombian delegation emphasised the importance of a Digital Compact in lessening the digital divide both within countries and between them. They envision a fair digital landscape where all states have equal opportunities, where monopolistic dominance is curbed, and where access to digital technologies is broadened for everyone.

A key aspect of the Compact should be its synergy with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the safeguarding of human rights. This suggests that whilst digital progress aims to bolster economic growth, it should also promote social and environmental well-being within a framework that respects rights.

Colombia advocates for a reinvigorated model of multi-stakeholder collaboration, highlighting the equitable distribution of technology’s advantages. The delegation underlines the need for emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), to be grounded in solidarity. This calls for comprehensive risk assessments and the sharing of best practices to ensure the safe and ethical use of such technologies.

The call for ethical considerations also includes proposals for audit and oversight mechanisms to supervise the responsible application of digital and emerging technologies. This involves setting up systems of accountability that cover the entire gamut from technology creators to end-users.

The delegation underscores the importance of integrating intersectional strategies within digital platforms and government frameworks, aiming to elevate vulnerable groups, improve digital skills, narrow the digital gender gap, and honour traditional knowledge systems and languages. Regarding governance, Colombia firmly believes in equitable and inclusive management of data flows.

This should involve measures to shield digital public goods from exploitation and maintain a transparent approach to data management and open data resources. Moreover, the country urges the establishment of international standards for the employment and creation of digital technologies and calls for technical and financial support to foster the digital progress of developing nations, particularly concerning digital infrastructure.

Colombia also supports the enactment of periodic reviews, leveraging existing platforms and fora dedicated to digital cooperation. This strategy is seen as critical to reinforcing coordination and guaranteeing the successful realisation of the Compact’s goals. In summary, while Colombia’s additional comments are aligned with a collective desire for a fairer and more sustainable digital future, they specifically point to various approaches and measures necessary to ensure this future is realised.

The pledge to continual assessment and cooperation via established digital forums indicates an enduring commitment to refining and enhancing the objectives of the Compact.

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Costa Rica’s input in the Global Digital Compact (GDC) discussions demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stewardship, insisting on the imperative that security considerations and democratic engagement in AI are not oppositional but rather complementary pursuits. Costa Rica dispels the myth that effective governance impedes AI development, proposing a harmonised path where oversight mechanisms develop in step with technological advancements.

The nation lays stress on research and education as crucial investments for the efficacy of the multilateral regime managing AI. It points out the need for regulatory nuance to counteract risks, critiquing the inadequacy of a universal regulatory approach to cater to the diverse and multifaceted nature of AI applications.

Costa Rica notes the current regulatory gaps, advocating for sturdier, globally consistent frameworks to standardise the regulation of disparate AI systems. This resonates with the aspiration to produce AI technologies that not only reflect fundamental values but also enhance security mechanisms in all implementations.

Calling for preemptive action, Costa Rica encourages the GDC to install a comprehensive, multilateral AI governance framework with global reach, beyond the foundational principles. This framework should assume explicit duties to ensure overarching governance of AI on a worldwide basis.

Taking cue from the Secretary General’s high-level advisory group on AI, Costa Rica suggests forming knowledge repositories to shed light on AI’s potential and pitfalls. In addition, it champions the interoperability functions to secure cohesive governance between nations, anchored in international norms.

The discourse underscores data access as pivotal for AI evolution and for facilitating a fair share in the AI transformation. Highlighting the objective of crafting international AI standards, Costa Rica’s stance is cut short by a microphone malfunction before the conclusion of its statement, leaving its final position ambiguous.

To summarise, Costa Rica’s stance at the GDC articulates a compelling plea for more accessible, principle-based, and conscientious AI governance models that are in sync with democratic ideals and collective security interests.

Arguments

Use Global Summit results as a guide for digital cooperation

Supporting facts:

• The results of the Global Summit should act as a compass for digital cooperation and international governance.

Advocate for the Declaration of Principles to guide new digital cooperation mechanisms

Supporting facts:

• The principles in the Declaration should guide the development of any new mechanisms for digital cooperation.

Emphasize inclusive participation in decision-making on emerging technologies

Supporting facts:

• Call for full, meaningful participation of all countries in decision-making pertaining to international governance on AI or any other new emerging technology.

UN should lead decision-making on digital cooperation

Supporting facts:

• UN is the most suitable to ensure equal participation of all member states on international digital policies.

Advocate for technology transfer and capacity building in developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Stress on technology transfer on favorable conditions and associated capacity building for developing countries.

Highlight the hurdles facing developing countries in digital advancement

Supporting facts:

• Obstacles include lack of infrastructure and unilateral coercive measures that impede access to technology.

Opposition to the creation of new review mechanisms for the Compact

Supporting facts:

• Belief that a new mechanism may cause duplication and that the Global Summit Forum is sufficient for progress review.

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The Global Summit plays a pivotal role in guiding the future of digital cooperation and shaping the strategies for international governance. There is a widely held view that the outcomes of such high-level discussions should act as a compass for global digital policy alignment.

The sentiment towards this consensus is overwhelmingly positive, indicating a communal aspiration to harmonise global digital policies with the summit’s conclusions. Furthermore, the Declaration of Principles is considered the bedrock document that should inform the formulation of new digital cooperation mechanisms.

The argument is compelling and suggests that the principles outlined in the declaration are critical to guiding the development of new governance frameworks. This vision for digital cooperation is grounded in universally agreed principles and standards. The call for inclusive participation in decision-making processes concerning AI governance and other emerging technologies is prominent.

Advocates stress the significance of equitable and inclusive participation, endorsing a democratized approach to technological governance that ensures every state has an equal say. The United Nations is identified as a key actor in this realm, recognised for its ability to ensure even-handed participation among member states in setting international digital policies.

The approval of the UN’s role is evident, reflecting confidence in its established mechanisms for mediating global affairs and advocating for fair digital governance. Development issues also receive targeted attention, with a strong plea for favourable technology transfer and capacity building in developing nations.

Such initiatives are viewed as essential to bridging the digital divide, especially given the infrastructural shortcomings and unilateral sanctions that hinder technology access. Here, the sentiment is geared towards enabling all nations to participate fully in the digital era. While the positivity towards cooperation and development is clear, there is noticeable resistance to introducing new review mechanisms for the Compact.

Concerns focus on the possibility of effort duplication, with a preference for utilising the existing Global Summit Forum as a sufficient mechanism for progress review in digital cooperation. Cuba’s stance is highlighted as an exemplary approach to digital cooperation, championing inclusion and equity.

The country advocates for the meaningful participation of all countries in the digital sector, reflecting its broader perspective on international relations that values inclusivity and equity. In summary, the global community exhibits a generally positive yet prudent attitude towards initiatives aimed at fostering digital collaboration and governance.

There is a strong inclination for equitable participation in the digital domain, the employment of established international entities like the UN for facilitation, and a thoughtful approach towards technology transfer and capacity enhancement in less technologically developed countries. Navigating the balance between these initiatives and concerns over efficiency and redundancy will be an essential challenge for international cooperation.

Arguments

Denmark aims for an inclusive and ambitious global digital compact.

Supporting facts:

• Denmark is engaging constructively to achieve the compact.

Denmark is committed to harnessing digital technologies to advance sustainable development goals.

Supporting facts:

• Technology delivers solutions to global challenges and supports peace, prosperity, and opportunity.

Denmark stresses the need to address the digital divide and enhance access to digital technologies and literacy.

Supporting facts:

• A third of the world’s population remains unconnected to the internet.

Denmark believes that the United Nations is uniquely positioned to drive the digital agenda, especially in AI.

Supporting facts:

• The UN can mobilize momentum, commitments, and resources for digital technologies to achieve shared goals.

Denmark supports the idea that technology should enable civic participation and reduce disparities.

Supporting facts:

• Digital inclusion provides access to participate fully in societies.

Denmark views digital inclusion and global connectivity as crucial for leveraging digital innovation and national progress.

Supporting facts:

• Global connectivity can accelerate a nation’s progress towards sustainable development goals.

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Denmark is actively engaged in shaping the Global Digital Compact, emphasizing digital inclusion and showcasing a positive and inclusive approach to digital engagement. This aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, as Denmark encourages international cooperation for a connected future.

Danish strategies harness digital technologies with the firm belief that they can resolve global challenges, in alignment with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Denmark identifies these technologies as crucial for achieving sustainable development, highlighting their ability to enhance peace, economic prosperity, and provide new opportunities.

Acknowledging the digital divide, with a significant portion of the global population offline, Denmark underlines the necessity for equal access to digital technologies and literacy. This reflects the nation’s commitment to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequality, emphasizing the importance of addressing the disparity in digital access.

On internet governance, Denmark endorses a human rights-centred multi-stakeholder model, advocating its importance to SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. This model is seen as essential for maintaining internet governance that is democratic, effective and meaningful. Denmark also entrusts the United Nations with a leadership role in driving the global digital agenda, especially with regard to artificial intelligence.

Recognizing the UN’s ability to mobilize commitments and resources, Denmark believes in the UN’s potential to advance shared goals through digital technologies. In aiming to reduce disparities and enhance civic participation, Denmark promotes the use of technology for empowerment. By supporting digital inclusion, the Danish perspective is centered on enabling technologies as tools allowing comprehensive societal participation, which contributes to reducing inequality as outlined in SDG 10: Reduced Inequality.

Finally, Denmark views digital inclusion and connectivity as key to maximizing the benefits of digital innovation for national and global progress. Digital innovation is connected to achieving SDG 9 and is considered a force that can accelerate a country’s sustainable development goals.

To sum up, Denmark’s approach towards digital development exemplifies a comprehensive strategy that integrates technology with human rights, education, equality, and global cooperation. It is an agenda that not only recognizes the promise of digital technologies but also strives towards fostering a more interconnected, empowered and sustainable global society.

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In an address to the United Nations, the representative of Djibouti, speaking for the Group of Francophone Ambassadors, expressed strong support for the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and its inclusive consultation processes. They drew attention to various significant concerns within the digital landscape, which the summary below will elucidate with attention to UK spelling and grammar: 1.

**Immediacy of Inclusivity:** The group expounded on the necessity for rapid advancements in diversity, inclusion, equity, and solidarity within the digital realm, underlining the importance of not allowing digital progress to overshadow these fundamental principles. 2. **Nurturing Linguistic and Cultural Diversities:** They posited that linguistic and cultural diversities are essential human attributes that must be maintained online to avoid the risk of marginalisation by dominant cultures, resulting in a homogenised digital world where minority languages and cultures are overlooked.

3. **Dangers of Digital Advancements:** The speech addressed the potential perils associated with swift digital transformations, such as the hastening disappearance of linguistic minorities and the potential for a few cultures to predominate, thereby widening the digital divide. 4. **Suggested Amendments to the GDC:** The following amendments for the GDC were proposed by the Francophone Ambassadors: – Ensuring that the GDC explicitly acknowledge the significance of cultural and linguistic diversities for achieving comprehensive digital inclusion.

– Expanding the provision of multilingual digital education and training resources to facilitate digital literacy across linguistic boundaries. – Upholding human rights online, such as cultural rights, and bolstering protections for ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities. – Establishing standards for Artificial Intelligence that preserve linguistic and cultural diversities, including diverse linguistic inputs for AI training and maintaining diversity in AI applications.

5. **Methodology and Language Access:** The group emphasised the importance of methodological rigor in the GDC’s establishment, bringing to light practical issues such as the necessity for translation services and the distribution of multilingual documents to encourage participation from non-English-speaking communities.

6. **Conclusion and Affirmation of Support:** The statement concluded with the Francophone Ambassadors affirming their unwavering support for the GDC, while underscoring the criticality of integrating their suggested elements to promote a digitally inclusive and equitable future. The analysis presented by the group emphasises the advocacy for the representation of diverse linguistic and cultural communities within the digital sphere.

They stress the implementation of specific measures to prevent cultural homogenisation in the face of globalisation and digital transformation, supporting a digital ecosystem that celebrates the vast spectrum of the world’s languages and cultures. Their input to the GDC process signifies their commitment to building an equitable digital future that respects and reflects global diversity.

Arguments

The digital revolution should be inclusive and equitable.

Supporting facts:

• Dominican Republic aligns with the G77 and China statement

• Emphasis on inclusivity for all nations and societies

Facing challenges in the transition to a digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• Need to develop infrastructure and citizen training for digital skills

Compact must focus on investment in digital infrastructure and combat poverty.

Supporting facts:

• Increase in investments crucial for digital infrastructure and poverty eradication

Need to promote technology transfer and education in developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• Emphasis on technology transfer and education as key areas

Commitment to active participation in creating an accessible digital compact.

Supporting facts:

• Commitment to actively contributing to the digital compact process

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The ongoing discourse on the digital landscape evolution emphasises inclusivity and equitability, closely aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10: Reduced Inequalities, and 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The positive sentiment is reinforced by the Dominican Republic advocating for the G77 and China’s statement, underscoring the need for a universally beneficial digital revolution.

There is supportive advocacy for addressing AI ethics, which is crucial for the socially-responsible advancement of technology and aligns with SDG 9. Concerns are raised about the transition to a digital economy, stressing the importance of developing robust digital infrastructure and digital literacy, in line with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and reinforcing SDG 9.

Investment in digital infrastructure is seen as key to poverty alleviation, resonating with SDG 1: No Poverty, and advocates call for a focus on policies and regulatory frameworks for innovation while protecting human rights, in accordance with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

The United Nations is endorsed for its crucial role in ensuring equitable internet governance and country participation, reflecting the principles of SDGs 16 and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Advocacy for technology transfer and educational improvement is highlighted as vital for empowering developing countries, complementing SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 9.

A commitment to creating an accessible digital compact aligns with SDGs 10 and 17, signalling a pledge to actively contribute to reducing digital inequality. Support is expressed for upholding digital sovereignty and social equality, in keeping with the aspirations of SDG 10. In conclusion, the shared vision for a digitally equitable future is supported by commitments to fundamental digital rights, social equality, and ethical foundations.

The discourse reveals a collective aim to shape a digital realm that fosters global development, equity, and inclusivity, with a spotlight on the UN’s pivotal role and the critical need for ethical governance in AI. This vision unites technology policy, digital economy, and infrastructure development with poverty alleviation, educational growth, and the protection of human rights.

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In the extended summary provided, the speaker affiliates their stance with the G77 and China, represented by Uganda, expressing gratitude towards the co-facilitators for their contributions to advancing the discussions on the Global Digital Compact (GDC). Despite recognising these efforts, there remains a strong sense of dissatisfaction with the elements paper’s capacity to effectively serve as a precursor to the GDC’s zero draft.

The speaker concurs with the G77 and China’s critiques regarding this issue. The need for an extensive and substantial zero draft is highlighted—a draft that should encapsulate the detailed discussions and myriad proposals put forward by member states and stakeholders in the preceding year.

The speaker articulates that the elements paper falls short of the expectations set by such exhaustive preparatory discussions and is, consequently, inadequate as a groundwork for the GDC. The speaker warns against the potential impact of parallel discussions in New York, particularly on artificial intelligence, on the shaping of the GDC.

There is a call for vigilance to ensure that these separate discussions do not prematurely shape or affect the content of the GDC, especially during the zero draft stage. The statement conveys a primary concern about avoiding contentious and divisive issues that are currently being addressed by other processes, committees, or forums.

By integrating these topics into the compact negotiations, the focus could shift from the GDC’s central objectives, potentially resulting in a fragile and ineffective compact that adds little to the established frameworks for international digital cooperation. Shifting focus, the delegate underscores the importance of infusing the compact with development-oriented topics, emphasising crucial areas such as bridging digital divides, improving digital infrastructure, facilitating technology transfers from developed to developing countries, lowering information and communications technology costs, and promoting capacity-building initiatives.

These development issues are deemed essential to the GDC. The statement spotlights the importance of existing international documents and agreements, notably the Geneva Declaration of Principles and the Tunis Agenda, advocating that these serve as foundational references to guide the GDC’s formulation.

The speaker also raises the issue of avoiding unnecessary multiplication of entities and mechanisms, underlining the necessity of ensuring synergy and avoiding redundancy amongst entities and processes tied to the GDC. The compact should aim to build upon and refine the achievements already made in digital cooperation rather than creating new structures.

Lastly, the statement reiterates the speaker’s delegation’s commitment to actively participating in the GDC process. It suggests that guidance from the co-facilitators or other seasoned entities might be beneficial to steer through the complexities of this endeavour, indicating a readiness for collaboration and an acknowledgement of the need for experienced leadership to accomplish the GDC’s objectives effectively.

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El Salvador has aligned itself with the viewpoints of Uganda, on behalf of the G77 and China, and Singapore, representing the Small States Group, emphasising the necessity to bridge both the internal and international digital divides. The nation sees these efforts as crucial to leveraging the benefits of digital technologies.

El Salvador advocates for an inclusive Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) that is ambitious, innovative and proactive, underlining the importance of a GDC framework with clear actions and commitments to advance digital cooperation. The country is particularly attentive to the challenges developing countries face, such as limited access to high-quality, affordable technology, insufficient digital literacy and education, skills development, resources, financing, and investment in connectivity and innovation.

Analysing and understanding the social impacts of digital technologies on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is also a focal point of El Salvador’s stance. The country underscores the need to ensure equity and bridge disparities in accessibility, capacity and participation opportunities in the digital arena, while protecting human rights, individual privacy and information access.

El Salvador is calling for the GDC to devise specific strategies tailored to the requirements of developing nations for capacity building and technology transfer. Such strategies should empower them within the digital realm, fostering innovation through structures that facilitate access to finance and incentivise digital entrepreneurs and researchers.

Furthermore, El Salvador recommends a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to establish data governance norms and regulations. Recognising the international scope of artificial intelligence (AI) systems, the country stresses the importance of a coordinated and inclusive governance framework, advocating for a key role for the United Nations and giving developing countries a stronger voice.

Lastly, El Salvador proposes the creation of a global code of conduct to uphold the integrity of public information, resonating with the vision outlined by the UN Secretary-General’s eighth policy brief and aligning with the GDC’s broader objectives. This suggestion reinforces the commitment to ethical standards in the dissemination of information, which is critical for global digital governance and cooperation.

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In a recent address, the Estonian representative endorsed the European Union’s statement and expressed gratitude to the co-facilitators for their dedication and leadership in advancing the Global Digital Compact (GDC). Recognised as a pivotal framework for shaping an inclusive and forward-looking global digital agenda, the GDC aligns with Estonia’s views, though the representative offered unique insights to reflect Estonia’s specific national perspective.

The representative concurred with the prevalent consensus that universally shared principles are essential to managing the rapidly accelerating technological advancements. Three key observations were presented to supplement this view: 1. Opportunity and Education: The GDC should not only highlight digital technology’s benefits but also provide concrete strategies for equitable access to these benefits.

Estonia underscores the critical role of education, promoting widespread digital literacy and ongoing skills development as a means to empower individuals to engage with the digital revolution. 2. Open Governance and Public Services: Citing Estonia’s experience, the representative emphasised transparent governance structures.

They advocated for digital public goods and services, recommending a model for co-creating, sharing, and further developing existing digital solutions. The integration of open data and artificial intelligence into government services was suggested as key to improvements, exemplified by Estonia’s AI action plan that seeks to enhance the efficiency of citizen-government interactions.

3. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Addressing digital divides and establishing sustainable digital governance requires a comprehensive strategy involving all stakeholders. Estonia stressed the need for cooperation that incorporates a range of perspectives in tackling data governance and closing innovation gaps. In summary, Estonia regards the GDC as a platform to address present digital challenges and to establish the groundwork for a future-oriented, inclusive digital environment.

The nation’s commitment to collaboration was reaffirmed, readying to work with all parties for the effective implementation of the GDC. Estonia’s input underscored its advocacy for education, open governance, and international cooperation, reflecting the country’s progressive digital development approach and its proactive stance on the international stage.

The reviewed text is free of grammatical errors, uses UK spelling and grammar, and presents an accurate reflection of the main analysis text with the inclusion of relevant long-tail keywords such as “Global Digital Compact,” “digital technology’s benefits,” and “sustainable digital governance,” without compromising the quality of the summary.

Arguments

The Global Digital Compact should uphold a human rights-based and human-centric approach to digital technologies.

Supporting facts:

• The Compact must promote and protect human rights and dignity both online and offline.

• Advocacy for the proposed OHCHR Human Rights Advisory Mechanism on technology issues.

The Compact needs to bridge digital divides and promote secure, trusted connectivity, and capacity-building.

Supporting facts:

• Emphasis on global connectivity and increased investments in digital infrastructure.

• Commitment to enhancing resilient digital public infrastructures and data governance.

Digital technologies should be leveraged for sustainable development, particularly in education and health.

Supporting facts:

• Improving access to and quality of education and health services using digital technologies.

• Support for socially just and sustainable digital and green twin transitions.

The Compact should protect against technology-enabled harm and emphasize the safety of children and youth.

Supporting facts:

• Global efforts to make new technologies a tool for equality, non-discrimination, and inclusion.

• Protection of children and young people from online harm is prioritized.

Promote international cooperation on artificial intelligence based on trust, transparency, and accountability.

Supporting facts:

• Alignment with UNESCO recommendations and OECD principles on artificial intelligence.

• Support for balanced regulations exemplified by the European Union AI Act.

The Compact should support an open, accessible, and sustainable internet, and back multi-stakeholder governance.

Supporting facts:

• Advocation for an internet aligned with the Declaration for the Future of the Internet.

• Endorsement of the multi-stakeholder Internet Governance Forum.

Affirm the role of the UN in fostering digital governance collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Supporting facts:

• The value of the UN in convening stakeholders for digital governance discussions.

• Fostering cooperation across sectors including public authorities, academia, media, and civil society.

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The narrative underpinning the proposed Global Digital Compact is resoundingly positive, championing a framework that integrates respect for human rights into the realm of digital technology. The prevailing discourse is underpinned by a commitment to preserving human dignity both online and offline, signalling strong support for the creation of a Human Rights Advisory Mechanism on technology by the OHCHR.

Such advocacy demonstrates an unwavering resolve to engrain a human-centred approach in the digital landscape. There is a fervent call to bridge existing digital divides, underscoring the importance of global connectivity and gender equality, and calling for augmented investment in digital infrastructures.

The emphasis on secure and trusted connectivity suggests a vision of integrated modern societies where digital inclusivity heralds not just beneficial but essential changes. Proposals for enhancing digital capacities also advocate for the strengthening of resilient digital public infrastructures. The potential of digital technologies as facilitators for sustainable development is another core theme, especially reflecting their role in broadening access to and improving the quality of education and health services.

This advocates for digital and green twin transitions as bridges towards social justice and sustainability, envisioning a future where technology is not just ubiquitous but also philanthropic. Online safety, particularly for children and youth, forms a crucial aspect of the conversation, mirroring a conscious recognition of new technologies’ risks.

It coincides with the urgent need to ensure equality, non-discrimination, and inclusion within digital platforms, aiming to cultivate safe environments for the most vulnerable demographics. Artificial intelligence (AI) receives special focus in matters of international cooperation. The narrative encourages adherence to UNESCO’s recommendations and OECD principles that promote trust, transparency, and accountability in AI.

The European Union’s AI Act is presented as a model of balanced regulation, reflective of a broader desire for an ethical framework for burgeoning technologies. Deliberations on an open internet confirm a preference for an online environment that resonates with the Declaration for the Future of the Internet and validates the multifaceted Internet Governance Forum.

This underscores the necessity for accessible internet, sustainable digital infrastructures, and equitable, multi-stakeholder internet governance. The United Nations (UN) is recognised for its pivotal role in spearheading digital governance discussions and uniting stakeholders from various sectors, including public authorities, academia, media, and civil society.

This illustrates a collective confidence in the UN’s convening power to mould disparate viewpoints into a unified digital policy. The European Union (EU) forthrightly commits to a constructive role in formulating an ambitious Global Digital Compact. This reflects the EU’s overall commitment to tackling a wide array of digital issues through cooperative means.

In these discussions, the connection to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is evident, with each argument related to goals such as reducing inequalities (SDG 10), promoting good health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).

The optimistic sentiment weaving through each standpoint not only reflects a collective dedication to digital equity and innovation but also a hope to harmonise digital development with the broader narrative of human progress and international collaboration.

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Your Excellencies, distinguished co-facilitators, Representing Ghana, I am aligned with the African group and the G77 and China in endorsing the initiative to establish a Global Digital Compact. We commend the transparent process outlined for this critical development, signaling Ghana’s support and readiness to contribute to this essential process.

It is crucial to acknowledge the growing segment of humanity engaging within the digital domain which requires consensus around core values and principles to foster a collective vision. Recent data indicate that one-third of the world’s population, or 2.6 billion people, remains offline, predominantly in low-income areas where only 25% have internet access.

Additionally, over 850 million individuals lack any form of identification, presenting a significant barrier to digital inclusivity. For Ghana, the Global Digital Compact presents a chance to set ambitious goals, especially for the developing world and Africa, to create an inclusive and equitable digital future that considers our distinctive needs and strategic interests.

Our aspirations for the compact include: 1. **Digital Equity**: Advocacy from Ghana is for the reduction of the global and local digital divide by improving access and utilisation, ensuring all nations benefit from digital progress. 2. **Digital Innovation**: We call for minimal restrictions on integrating new technologies into existing infrastructures and applications, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and technological advances spread unimpeded.

3. **Digital Economy**: The digitalised economy should support all nation-states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhance “click-to-door” transactions. Crucially, eliminating unfair practices in global payment systems is vital to empower exports of digital services from developing countries. 4. **Digital Safety and Security**: The compact should ensure the protection of individual rights, particularly for the most vulnerable; this encompasses privacy and data protections, ethical guidelines for emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing, and the security of critical infrastructure, including international digital networks.

5. **Digital Sovereignty**: Emphasising the importance of digital sovereignty for nation-states ensures that each has the authority to govern its digital space, an essential principle for the compact. In closing, I reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to working with all delegations for a successful outcome.

We hope that the Global Digital Compact will offer a visionary perspective that addresses current and potential future digital challenges and opportunities. Our collective aim is to not merely address present concerns but also to anticipate and navigate the myriad possibilities and intense trials that the future digital landscape holds.

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The Holy See delegation, addressing the forum on the proposed Global Digital Compact (GDC), commends the initiative to convene these vital consultations, while delving into the profound implications of digital technologies on society. They highlight a paradox: digital technologies pose potential threats to our existence and environment, yet if harnessed responsibly, they offer significant advancements in human well-being.

A principal argument by the delegation is the essential need for universal access to digital technology and connectivity, advocating it as a foundational commitment of the GDC. This call to action is based on the principles of solidarity and equity, aiming to prevent marginalisation of individuals in remote or developing areas within our increasingly digitalised world.

The delegation sees connectivity as a tool for poverty alleviation through enhanced financial inclusion and digital financial services. The impact of digital technology on education raises concerns; while it holds the capacity to revolutionise learning and promote inclusive, equitable quality education, there also exists the risk of education being commodified.

The Holy See underscores the need for integrating digital literacy and skills within educational frameworks, to ensure learners are equipped for the digital age. Additionally, the delegation suggests that digital technologies are instrumental in combating social exclusion and stresses the importance of integrating such advancements into systems currently monitoring progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

They emphasise aligning GDC’s commitments with established tracking mechanisms for the SDGs, such as those focusing on water, sanitation, and climate action, to avoid redundancy and promote efficiency. On the subject of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the delegation argues for its development and application to be directed towards serving all of humanity, with unwavering adherence to human dignity.

They highlight the extensive datasets needed for AI, calling this intersection a pivotal point for establishing robust data privacy principles and safeguards. In summing up, the Holy See delegation insists that the GDC should recognise digital technologies’ risks and opportunities.

They urge for the embedding of core values such as inclusion and transparency within the GDC framework, to ensure these technologies contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future. The delegation’s input reflects a broad understanding of digital technology’s transformative power, coupled with a plea for judicious stewardship to ensure that power contributes to the common good.

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The delegation commences with good wishes for the co-facilitators of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and endorses the positions previously articulated by the G77 chair. They stress the necessity for the GDC to prioritise the developmental needs of the global South and emphasise inclusivity in the digital era to prevent leaving any individual or nation behind.

In response to guiding questions, the delegation advocates for GDC’s international cooperation principles to be founded on digital inclusivity, fairness, and universality, emphasising the avoidance of the Compact’s politicisation and instead concentrating on supporting development in the digital age. Concerning AI governance, the delegation acknowledges its intricacy and India’s proactive approach in proposing a responsible and human-centric AI governance framework during its G20 presidency.

They express aspirations to establish a global framework centred on the ethical usage of AI. While the delegation recognises AI’s capacity to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), they also highlight the associated risks such as data theft, security issues, and the potential misuse of AI tools by non-state entities, which the GDC should address.

They argue for the integration of open-source technologies, the dissemination of technological advancements, capacity-building efforts, and the protection of cross-border data flows within the GDC framework to propel progress towards the SDGs. To conclude, the delegation proposes a structured follow-up mechanism for the GDC, analogous to existing member state-driven mechanisms within the United Nations, to avoid duplicity and parallel efforts.

India’s commitment to developing digital infrastructure and constructive engagement with the GDC process is reaffirmed. The delegation’s submission presents a balanced view, acknowledging both the developmental promise and the governance and security challenges posed by the expansion of the digital domain.

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ASEAN’s extended statement on the Global Digital Compact (GDC) reflects the bloc’s commitment to actively participate in shaping discourse on the digital transformation. ASEAN views the GDC as an essential mechanism to address contemporary digital challenges, particularly to bridge the digital divide and establish a governance framework grounded in universally endorsed principles.

Three main priorities are outlined by ASEAN for the GDC: 1. **Inclusion, Innovation, and Interoperability**: – **Inclusion**: ASEAN urges the GDC to support a framework that enhances digital connectivity, boosts digital infrastructure, and actively reduces disparities in digital access. – **Innovation**: The Compact should propel investment and innovation, unlocking the digital economy’s potential.

– **Interoperability**: ASEAN calls for the GDC to enable cross-border data exchange, aligning with regional strategies like the ASEAN Digital Master Plan 2025 for coherence and efficiency. 2. **Governance of Emerging Technologies**: – The GDC is seen as fundamental to address issues such as artificial intelligence governance, building digital trust, and formulating protocols for responsible data use and sharing.

ASEAN refers to its Guide on Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics, advocating for a synergy between regional and global governance efforts. 3. **Commitments and Collaborative Partnerships**: – ASEAN supports the GDC’s focus on actionable commitments and measurable outcomes that boost digital collaboration for sustainable development.

It underscores the value of partnerships involving international actors, UN agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders for knowledge transfer and capacity building. ASEAN emphasises the need for the GDC to mirror the SDGs’ structured approach, with clear targets and review processes, due to the considerable impact of digital transformation.

The statement stresses resolving the “digital paradox” where technological advancements can also intensify digital inequalities. The plea is for the GDC to act as an umbrella framework harmonising diverse digital initiatives and promoting policy consistency. It should enable dialogue among various entities and advocate comprehensive government approaches.

The GDC should not only align with but also build upon the progress made by existing forums such as the ITU, WSIS, and IGF. In conclusion, ASEAN’s statement is a call to the international community to seize the transformative potential of the GDC, fostering an inclusive digital future that is secure and equitable for everyone, and to tackle the pivotal digital governance decisions at hand.

Arguments

Access to digital technologies should be considered a fundamental entitlement

Supporting facts:

• Permanent access to digital technologies is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for personal autonomy

• Digital exclusion leads to social and political exclusion

Establish democratic governance structures for AI

Supporting facts:

• AI’s role in spreading disinformation and hate speech is eroding democracy

• AI should be guided by democratic principles like transparency and accountability

Ensuring digital inclusivity is crucial for not leaving anyone behind

Supporting facts:

• Digital access should be enhanced as a universal public good

• Investments in digital literacy are necessary for resilience to disinformation

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The emerging consensus emphasises the imperative of digital access as a fundamental entitlement, with a positive sentiment favouring the framing of internet access and digital technologies as pivotal to personal autonomy. The argument is anchored in the view that, in today’s world, perennial access to digital technologies is essential, not just for convenience but as a prerequisite for active participation in society.

This is further highlighted by the impact of digital exclusion, which leads to marginalisation in social and political contexts. There’s a recognition of the significant role that artificial intelligence (AI) plays in governance. Particularly concerning is how AI can be used to spread disinformation and hate speech, threatening the integrity of democratic systems.

The discourse calls for the establishment of democratic governance structures for AI, championing the management of such technologies in line with democratic values, which include transparency and accountability. Such measures are seen as vital to safeguarding trust in democratic processes.

Digital inclusivity is underlined as an essential element for ensuring that no individual or community is left behind, intersecting with Sustainable Development Goals 4 (quality education) and 10 (reduced inequalities). The enhancement of digital access is proposed as a universal public good, calling for substantial investments in digital literacy to enhance societal defence against disinformation and to support equal opportunities in the digital realm.

The Global Digital Compact process is met with approval, signalling a positive move towards international cooperation. Backing from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) fortifies this stance, with a call for the co-facilitators, Sweden and Zambia, to commit to core principles such as sustainability, human rights, and transparency.

The compact is seen as a collaborative effort to streamline global strategies in shaping our digital future. In summation, the comprehensive analysis reveals a multi-faceted approach to tackling the digital divide, aligning access to technology with basic human rights to facilitate robust participation in the digital age.

The governance of cutting-edge technologies, like AI, is closely linked with the promotion of democratic standards, underscoring the importance of preventing potential damage to democracies. Prioritising digital inclusivity is crucial for fostering equitable development, and the Global Digital Compact represents a commitment to international collaboration aimed at realising these objectives in a manner that upholds fundamental human values.

The overall narrative portrays a proactive and positive endorsement of digital integration as a means to support a more equitable and just global community.

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Ireland has been actively involved in discussions on establishing a global digital compact, advocating for a framework centred on a human-centric approach that aligns with international human rights law and promotes the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The country stresses the need for robust governance structures influenced by technology’s ongoing impact on daily life, with principles grounded in human rights to mitigate potential harms and enhance benefits.

Within the context of artificial intelligence (AI), Ireland recognizes its potential to address critical social and economic challenges. Ethical and trustworthy AI development and usage can be instrumental in meeting the SDGs. International frameworks such as the OECD Principles on Artificial Intelligence and UNESCO’s recommendations on the Ethics of AI are highlighted as benchmarks for the ethical application of AI technologies.

Technological advancements, according to Ireland, present alternative development routes that promise a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive future. The importance of data is acknowledged for its role in shaping evidence-based policy decisions contributing to sustainable development. Addressing the digital divide is a concern for Ireland, which encompasses improving technology access, enhancing digital literacy, raising awareness of technology’s benefits, and ensuring equitable outcomes.

An ethical transformation that recognises human rights, especially overcoming gender inequalities in technology usage, is deemed essential. Stressing participatory governance, Ireland argues for inclusive global policy decision-making, engaging civil society and stakeholders. The country supports an expansive debate on the future of digital cooperation.

In conclusion, Ireland is dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages innovation and creativity while ensuring that technological advancements are harmonious with human values, rights, and global development objectives. The commitment is to a sustainable and inclusive development that offers future opportunities, with technology working as a supporter of human-centred growth.

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The delegation has unwaveringly supported the statement issued by Uganda on behalf of the Group of 77 (G77) and China, which shares a collective vision for digital cooperation. The goal is to tackle the digital divide, promoting inclusive, safe, and secure advancement in the digital sphere.

The role of the United Nations and its member states is deemed crucial, in line with the UN Charter’s principles. Emphasising the protection of the rights of nations under unilateral coercive measures is a key concern in digital cooperation.

Building a solid foundation for capacity building to bridge digital disparities between developed and developing nations is a high priority. Reaffirming the principle of non-discrimination, the delegation draws from the prior WSIS commitments, including the Geneva Declaration of Principles and the Tunis Agenda for the Information Society.

They stress the recognition of state sovereignty and the right to development, advocating for a fair digital ecosystem that benefits all countries and promotes their active participation in the global digital economy and governance. Accountability and responsibility are pivotal, with a call for stakeholders, particularly tech giants, to act responsibly in the international ICT environment while respecting ethical, moral, and cultural values, and fostering global solidarity.

Focal points for action include data governance, digital literacy, and ethical AI development. Initiating international dialogue, sharing best practices, and responsible AI application are encouraged. The UN’s leadership role in these initiatives is reaffirmed, highlighting the right to development and calling for united efforts to overcome digital monopolies.

In conclusion, the Global Digital Compact must address developing countries’ specific needs and priorities, with capacity building at its core. The delegation’s approach stresses the need for holistic, ethical, and equitable digital cooperation to ensure that digital technology serves the betterment of all, prioritising developing nations’ requirements.

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At a recent COSPAC meeting, Japan commenced by expressing gratitude towards Zambia and Sweden for their roles in facilitating the gathering, acknowledging the importance of international collaboration. Regarding the Global Digital Compact (GDC), Japan outlined a vision emphasizing strategic multi-front engagement.

1. Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Japan highlighted the necessity of inclusive participation in shaping the GDC, applauding the diverse stakeholder involvement in the zero draft consultations. The Japanese delegation believes that the compact’s effectiveness depends on the contributions of a wide range of voices and viewpoints.

Japan expects co-facilitators to enable stakeholder expression during the review stages of the zero draft, displaying the country’s dedication to democratic policy development. 2. Dignified Digital Ecosystems: Japan advocates for the creation of digital ecosystems based on ethical principles that respect human dignity and ensure equitable technology access.

Japan recognises the urgency of bridging the digital divide and fostering digital cooperation, particularly through AI’s capacity to tackle challenges like poverty, hunger, climate change, and health crises. This aligns with advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ethical AI application is stressed, with Japan referring to the G7 Hiroshima AI meeting discussions as crucial for shaping the GDC’s stance on technology.

3. Free and Secure Internet Advocacy: Japan’s third point is dedicated to the support for a free, open, reliable, and secure global Internet, rooted in democratic values and human rights. The argument is supported by the extensive participation at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Kyoto, where over 6,000 stakeholders discussed internet governance, evidencing the efficacy of the IGF and the support for a multistakeholder governance model.

4. Post-Adoption Follow-up to the GDGC: The follow-up mechanisms essential for advancing the GDGC’s goals post-adoption were Japan’s concluding focus. Existing platforms, such as the IGF and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), were identified as critical for leveraging their established roles and expertise within Internet governance.

Throughout the summary, Japan’s commitment to a collaborative, democratic, and ethically-led approach to global digital governance is emphasised. The nation foresees a technological future shaped by AI, underscored by fairness and human rights. Japan’s support for multistakeholder participation and reference to successful international forums underscores its advocacy for a participatory, transparent, and accountable governance model for the Internet and digital ecosystems.

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Kenya has voiced its support for the positions taken by Uganda and Botswana representing the G77 & China and the African Group respectively. This East African nation recognises the profound influence that science, technology, and innovation (STI) exert on hastening socio-economic development and realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Additionally, Kenya acknowledges the pivotal role played by artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital economy in this regard. In terms of international collaboration and policy-making, Kenya highlights the significance of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and aligning with Africa’s Agenda 2063 strategic framework.

The nation advocates for a GDC guided by the principles outlined in the UN Charter, prioritising cooperation and multilateralism, and underscored by inclusivity. Detailing its proposals, Kenya calls for the GDC to adopt a people-centric and development-driven approach, ensuring digital endeavours address the interests of the global population, particularly spotlighting developmental outcomes.

Kenya also insists on an inclusive process in shaping the GDC, ensuring that the perspectives and necessities of various stakeholders, especially from developing nations, are considered. Furthering its stance, Kenya argues in favour of digital technologies being categorised as public goods.

It campaigns for such technologies to be openly available and advantageous to all, influencing the nature of digital education and infrastructure availability, as well as advocating for equitable technology access. Kenya emphasises the need for the GDC to cultivate partnerships that cater to specific needs of developing countries through capacity building, skills enhancement, and the unconditional transfer of technology.

These measures are seen as vital in narrowing the digital divide that poses a significant challenge to many developing economies. The Kenyan delegation accentuates the vital importance of incorporating environmental sustainability into digital transformation strategies, acknowledging the interconnectedness of digital and environmental governance and relating to the global movement towards a green technological shift.

Recognising infrastructure as a crucial facilitator for digitalisation, Kenya points out that effective digital networks and sustainable energy sources are fundamental. Without such infrastructure, the objectives of the GDC could be hard to meet, particularly where such facilities are insufficient in developing regions.

Kenya concludes by reaffirming its commitment to proactively participate in the formulation of the GDC. This reflects Kenya’s eagerness to collaborate with international partners to chart a digital future that aligns with its own development aspirations and the broader goals of the Global South.

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The Global Digital Compact (GDC) has acknowledged the efforts of the co-facilitators in holding informal consultations, expressing appreciation for their role in guiding the process. Echoing the statement made by the European Union, the GDC brings further insights to the discussion on the Global Digital Compact.

The key message from the GDC underlines the imperative for the compact to be rooted in human rights principles, with a vision for technology to be an empowering force for all, free from discrimination. Their detailed examination covers several points: 1.

Objectives and Actions: The GDC emphasises the need for clear objectives and values within the compact, grounded in inclusivity and human rights. They call for a practical approach, highlighting the necessity for not just setting goals but also defining specific actions required by stakeholders to achieve these aims.

2. Stakeholder Involvement: The GDC underscores the importance of diverse stakeholder engagement to ensure the compact reflects a unified and thoroughly considered vision. They advocate for a strong commitment to the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance, striving for a global, open, free, reliable, and secure Internet that yields equal benefits for all societies.

3. Responsible AI Usage: The GDC proposes that the compact should include a framework promoting the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, emphasising transparency and the inclusion of mechanisms for human oversight to preserve autonomy in decision-making. They highlight combating the digital divide, championing equitable data practices, and harnessing AI to meet societal needs.

4. Regular Evaluation: Given the ever-evolving nature of the digital realm, the GDC suggests regular monitoring and updating of the compact, underlining the need for a structured approach to ensure its ongoing relevance and efficiency. 5. Sustainability: Sustainability is identified as a vital component by the GDC, who call for digital progress that supports environmental, social, and economic sustainability for generations to come.

This approach advocates aligning technological advancement with wider sustainability aims. 6. Enhancing Accessibility and Skills: The GDC concludes with a call for significant commitments to tackle digital inequality, such as investing in universal, affordable Internet access, improving digital skills, and promoting collaborative AI research for societal benefit.

In sum, the GDC’s perspective on the Global Digital Compact is concentrated on creating an inclusive and responsible digital future. Their comprehensive recommendations are tailored to ensure that the advancement of digital technologies occurs ethically, inclusively, and sustainably, contributing positively to the social good.

Their ultimate goal is to foster a world where digital empowerment is widespread, leading to reduced inequality, improved digital literacy, and the development of AI that is equitable and conscientious.

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Lithuania has demonstrated its support for the European Union’s position and has praised the inclusive methods adopted by the co-facilitators of the global digital compact. The country emphasises the importance of this compact as a framework for addressing significant issues in future international summits.

Critical concerns highlighted by Lithuania include the threats of cyberattacks, hybrid threats, disinformation, and hate speech, as these have the potential to undermine democratic institutions and processes. The country stresses the immediate need to close the digital gap and achieve universal internet access, aligning the ambitions of the digital compact with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Lithuania draws attention to the potential of digitalisation, particularly within the transport sector, to reduce environmental impact and aid in meeting climate change objectives. A strategic global dialogue has been called for concerning the governance of high-risk artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

Lithuania advocates for increased transparency, openness, and accountability in state and private sector engagements with AI, to safeguard human rights and to build trust in digital environments that are increasingly dominated by AI technologies. Data’s role in worldwide economic and social interactions is underscored by Lithuania, which acknowledges the challenges of facilitating cross-border data movement while maintaining high protection standards.

The country suggests that governance frameworks should strike a balance between the free flow of data and preserving privacy and security. Recognising the value of specialist knowledge, Lithuania recommends soliciting the expertise of specialist agencies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in order to push forward with the objectives of the Global Digital Compact.

Defining the roles of these agencies is considered critical for their effective participation. Lastly, Lithuania urges coordinated action to avoid overlap across various initiatives and underscores the necessity of creating strong links between decision-making centres in both New York and Geneva.

This is intended to harmonise the governance of digital concerns on a global scale. In sum, Lithuania’s approach to forming the future of the global digital landscape is characterised by its comprehensive, cooperative, and transparent nature, focusing on digital connectivity promotion, human rights preservation, secure data flows, and the involvement of specialised institutions in the governance of cutting-edge technology.

The objective is to improve the global collective response to the complexities and prospects posed by the digital revolution.

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Malaysia has conveyed appreciation towards the co-facilitators for their dedicated efforts and voices support for the statements previously made by Indonesia on behalf of ASEAN, as well as those by Uganda for the G77 and China coalition. Using this platform, Malaysia outlines its perspective, particularly recognising the transformative effects of science, technology, and artificial intelligence.

The country views these emerging technologies as key catalysts for innovation and global progress, emphasising the need for policies that can harness their capabilities to enhance productivity and further the digital economy. A critical issue highlighted by Malaysia is the persistent digital divide, which is a pressing global challenge given that 2.6 billion people lack internet access.

Malaysia underscores the need for collective actions to make connectivity universally affordable and accessible, promoting inclusivity within the digital revolution. The country also raises concerns regarding the spread of online disinformation, misinformation, and discrimination, including Islamophobia, xenophobia, and negative profiling.

As a result, Malaysia is calling for combined efforts to foster a safer digital environment and to tackle hate speech and media violence that may arise from disparate religious beliefs or ideologies. Highlighting potential redundancy in international digital policy-making, Malaysia proposes focussing on preventing duplication of work.

The country recommends utilising the strengths of established platforms and existing agencies within the digital ecosystem, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), to create synergies and maximise the impact of global digital initiatives.

In summary, Malaysia positions itself as a proponent for responsible regulation of new technologies, equitable access to digital resources, protection against online threats, and effective collaboration within established international frameworks. The nation is prepared to partake in comprehensive and outcome-driven discussions and is looking forward to contributing to these ongoing debates.

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In the speech, the critical need for a unified strategy to confront the ever-evolving digital environment is stressed, with the Global Digital Compact (GDC) poised to lead such efforts. The speaker underscores the immediacy demanded by the pace of technological change and calls for the global convergence of ideas and policies.

The GDC is depicted as a crucial step in unifying a diverse range of nations behind a shared vision for our digital future, encouraging actionable commitments. The GDC’s foundation is suggested to be anchored in the United Nations’ core principles: the respect for human rights, the recognition of the innate dignity and worth of individuals, and the assurance of equal rights for all.

These principles, referred to as the UN’s ‘DNA’, are non-negotiable and should underpin the GDC. The speaker urges that rights must be universally upheld, be they online or offline. Mexico, as represented by the speaker, acknowledges the stark digital disparities among countries, with varying levels of connectivity, infrastructure, digital literacy, and economic possibilities.

These differences underscore the need for the GDC to engage in policy-making that aspires toward truly universal and equitable access to digital technologies. To accomplish this, Mexico recommends implementing advanced digital public infrastructures and promoting digital public goods as critical enablers for digital inclusion.

The speaker also emphasises the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and access to high-quality data as necessary for harnessing such pioneering technologies. Data governance is addressed as a pivotal issue, with an urgent call for the development of shared understandings and practices around data ownership, usage, and distribution.

It’s proposed that international collaboration include explicit commitments towards the establishment of data commons, ensuring quality data is available to all. The speech shines a light on the challenges of the growing digital divide, especially impacting the Global South, proposing that rectifying this imbalance requires an international, united front to equalise access to technology.

This includes bolstering partnerships, offering opportunities for skill development, facilitating technology transfers, and promoting the open sharing of knowledge. The Mexican perspective concludes by asserting that the conversations and initiatives regarding the digital future should not be confined to state actors alone.

A variety of voices, including non-state stakeholders, is essential in creating inclusive digital policies and spaces, ensuring that the digital realm remains a shared, pluralistic entity that reflects a wealth of global perspectives. The summary already adheres to UK spelling and grammar conventions as specified.

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In an articulate statement, the representative from the least-developed countries (LDCs) aligned with Uganda’s discourse on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, revealing a unified position amongst developing nations. The address commenced with thanks to the co-facilitators for their leadership on the global digital compact discussions.

The representative highlighted digitalization’s key role in transforming LDC economies, asserting its potential to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the 2030 agenda. Emphasis was placed on the widening digital divide, specifically underlining how LDCs lag with outdated network technologies and low internet connectivity, ownership of computers, and mobile penetration compared to worldwide averages.

The prohibitive cost of broadband and a significant gender gap in internet usage were concerns as well. Alarming statistics depicted the stark reality: a mere 36% of LDC inhabitants use the internet compared to a 66% global average, minimal LDC household computer and mobile ownership, the high cost of fixed broadband relative to GNI per capita, and less than 10% of LDC populations using the internet regularly.

The LDCs’ low standings in the 2022 Global Innovation Index further illustrated their technological challenges. The representative then issued a call to action for significant, tailored support from the global community in digital technology and innovation. They envisaged a Global Digital Compact (GDC) with specific, time-bound targets to empower LDCs to bridge the digital divide, advocating for an exceptional international partnership.

The GDC should include goals focusing on expanding broadband, improving electricity access, developing infrastructure for digital innovation, capacity building, and enhancing digital literacy—even in the most remote areas. The call underscored the need for technology transfer, investment, sound cybersecurity, efficient data protection, and regulatory conditions favourable to innovation and entrepreneurship.

It was urged that the GDC outcome document must reflect LDC perspectives and prioritise marginalised community empowerment. The statement concluded by lobbying for a reaffirmed dedication to multilateralism to repair divides in digital access, data, and innovation, stressing digital technology as a unifying, rather than divisive, force.

This vision of digital inclusivity and equitable growth is viewed as essential for enabling LDCs not only to catch up but to flourish in the digital age.

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Norway has demonstrated a strong commitment to the management of the digital cooperation framework by the co-facilitators, emphasising that it should be managed in a way that is transparent, inclusive, and effective. The Norwegian representative offers two key suggestions for the proposed shared principles of global digital cooperation.

Firstly, they posit that individuals must be fully literate in the technology that is interwoven with their daily lives. Secondly, they advocate for universal digital inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute their voice within digital spaces. Norway is a proponent of a global digital compact, designed to tackle the current shortcomings of the digital sphere, particularly the digital divide that excludes around 2.7 billion people from internet access.

To address this, Norway recommends a fortified commitment to international partnerships that focus on capacity building and confidence-building measures. Norway places importance on expanding multi-stakeholder participation in the global digital conversation, acknowledging their vital role in maintaining an internet that is free, secure, and open.

However, while recognising the need to involve diverse stakeholders, Norway advises against the establishment of new regulatory bodies, suggesting the utilisation of existing organisations and agencies instead. Concerning deliverables, commitments, and actions relating to digital cooperation, Norway commends the inclusion of the Alliance for Digital Public Goods in the policy brief and anticipates that digital commons will be a significant focus within the Global Digital Compact (GDC).

Norway raises concerns about the governance of digital commons not keeping pace with their evolution, even though these commons have been instrumental in supporting our digital infrastructure for the past four decades. Norway warns against the risks of state and corporate overreach in digital commons management, likening these to the privatisation of physical commons.

Norway backs a governance model that promotes commons-based management of technology and underscores the necessity of digital public infrastructure, such as digital identity systems. They call for states to play an active role in generating and distributing digital public goods, which must align with the established digital public goods standards, pivotal for consistency among governments and corporations.

The statement concludes with Norway’s anticipation that these standards will inform the framework for the GDC and expresses gratitude for the chance to contribute to shaping the future of digital cooperation.

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In a detailed statement, the speaker aligned their position with Uganda on behalf of the Group of 77 (G77) and China, presenting a comprehensive set of observations and recommendations for the draft of the Global Digital Compact (GDC). The focus was on maintaining consistency with existing frameworks and ensuring a balanced approach to digital issues.

Firstly, the speaker emphasised that the GDC should adhere to guiding principles laid out in seminal instruments such as the right to development and the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), specifically the Tunis Agenda and Geneva Declaration of Principles.

The importance of not rewriting or reinterpreting these foundational documents was stressed, indicating respect for the established global consensus on information society principles. Secondly, the discussion addressed the issue of the digital divide between the global North and South. The speaker criticised the issue’s absence in the current issues paper and underscored that bridging this divide should be a central pillar of the GDC, signalling the necessity to address inequalities in digital access and capability across different regions.

Thirdly, the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) was broached, highlighting the need for the GDC to recognise the United Nations’ primary role in creating an international framework for AI regulation and governance. It was asserted that present undertakings concerning AI must not limit the GDC’s objectives, implying that the compact could serve as a platform for setting more ambitious global standards and norms in AI development and usage.

Fourthly, the issue of disinformation was raised. The acknowledgment of freedom of expression as both a fundamental human right and a collective responsibility set the stage for demanding that tech companies be held accountable for their platforms being used to spread disinformation, addressing the complex role of private corporations in content management and information dissemination in the digital age.

Fifth, the speaker suggested that discussions within the GDC be steered by the balanced approach to human rights and development as represented in the Geneva Declaration of Principles. This approach stresses the simultaneous importance of human rights and development, suggesting that neither should be prioritised at the expense of the other.

The sixth point referenced the Tunis Agenda’s outlined division of roles and responsibilities for multi-stakeholder participation, with the speaker asserting that the GDC should acknowledge and reassert these roles. This indicates support for the existing multi-stakeholder mechanisms as the standard for international cooperation on digital issues.

Seventh, the broader context was addressed, noting that many topics within the GDC’s scope are also subject to existing processes, such as the forthcoming WSIS review. It was suggested that rather than establishing new mechanisms, any follow-up from the compact should be integrated into these existing processes, advocating for efficient resource use and institutional coherence.

In conclusion, the speaker made an administrative suggestion for future dialogues, recommending the use of a time ticker to aid speakers in managing their allotted time effectively, hinting at a need for improved procedural facilitation during discussions. Overall, the statement reflected a call for a pragmatic, consistent, and responsible approach to digital cooperation, recognising established principles while seeking to enhance them within the evolving global digital challenges context.

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The Polish representative commenced their address by thanking the co-facilitators overseeing the consultations on global digital cooperation (GDC), commending the initiative’s congruence with the principles of the European Union and highlighting the chance to mould the digital future. Three principal strategic approaches are suggested for incorporation into the GDC’s agenda: 1.

The GDC is deemed essential in propelling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) forward. The representative calls for the GDC to devise precise, actionable steps and to determine performance metrics to monitor advancements towards these universal targets. Emphasis is placed on the necessities of definitive action and result-oriented accountability.

2. The necessity for a foundational GDC tenet that upholds and cherishes a human-centred approach and human rights in both the digital and physical realms is voiced. This approach prioritises individual well-being and rights within the digital sphere while safeguarding the core human values intrinsic to all digital interactions and governance.

3. The multi-stakeholder model of digital engagement is championed, acknowledging the vital contributions of various players, including the younger generation. The significance of youthful participation is accentuated, acknowledging that their role is decisive in crafting the digital landscape of tomorrow. Addressing artificial intelligence (AI), the Polish spokesperson recognises its profound potential to reshape society and human existence.

Echoing Pope Francis’s sentiments from the World Day of Peace, they assert that AI, and by extension GDC, demands responsible stewardship to align with humanitarian norms and to yield societal benefits. Key principles such as inclusivity, transparency, security, fairness, privacy, and dependability are proposed as guiding beacons for GDC operations.

To conclude, the GDC accord is envisaged as a pivotal gateway to reformulate and enhance digital collaboration. An inclusive, audacious framework is advocated for, envisioning a detailed blueprint for a fair and participatory digital future with human rights and engagement at its core.

The address concludes on an upbeat note regarding the collaborative prospects for cultivating a superior digital realm, anchored in universally recognised human values and ethics.

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Portugal has demonstrated solidarity with the European Union’s perspective on the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and has offered additional insights that are crucial for the success of the initiative. Portugal emphasises the importance of solidarity, inclusivity, and adherence to international law, particularly human rights legislation.

These values are deemed essential for the GDC to maximise the benefits of digital technologies, tackle related challenges, and contribute to a fairer world. To combat the growing digital divide and promote sustainable development goals, Portugal advocates for equitable distribution of digitalisation benefits.

The country underlines the significance of capacity building in developing nations to reduce disparities and accelerate global development. Portugal urges specific attention to the requirements of small island developing states, the least developed countries, and landlocked developing countries, recognising their unique challenges.

Portugal highlights the necessity of promoting local languages on digital platforms as a vital element of inclusivity, treating cultural and linguistic diversity as an asset in the digital sphere. Focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), Portugal views it as a critical area needing attention owing to its potential and the ethical, social, and legal issues it presents.

Portugal’s acknowledgement of the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board’s interim report indicates its active role in international AI governance debates. Portugal underscores the need to involve all stakeholders in the GDC’s deployment, enabling meaningful participation from the private sector, civil society, academia, and governments.

The country also argues for strategic alignments between the GDC and other key processes, such as the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and its upcoming 20-year review, the Geneva Declaration of Principles, the Plan of Action, and the Tunis Agenda, which includes the Internet Governance Forum.

This reflects Portugal’s vision for a cohesive approach to crafting and executing global digital policy. In sum, Portugal aligns with the EU but also contributes a nuanced and proactive stance on various facets of the GDC, committing full support and active engagement to the co-facilitators, thereby signalling its eagerness to contribute to realising the GDC’s goals on an international scale.

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The speaker begins by expressing gratitude to both Ambassador Ernest Röhm and the incoming Ambassador Miranbo, expressing hope for their successful leadership at COP26 and its positive outcomes for the participating member states. The speech highlights the urgency for establishing immediate, universally accepted digital norms in response to the rapidly changing nature of digital technology, which is defined by its instantaneity and interconnectivity.

To prevent member states from adopting redundant or outdated digital practices, the speaker advocates for a Global Digital Compact (GDC), which would serve as a universal platform to standardise digital norms internationally, promoting their widespread recognition and adoption. The Republic of Korea’s (ROK) forward-thinking response to these digital challenges is showcased through their development of the Digital Bill of Rights.

This document is commended as an exemplary model that addresses the complexities of the modern interconnected digital era. The ROK proposes that the considerations of the GDC should seriously contemplate the global implications of the Digital Bill of Rights. The speaker proposes a three-pronged approach for the GDC: it should conform to the principles of the UN Charter, the 2030 Agenda, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; it should drive digitalisation in a way that benefits all, without hindering innovation; and it should underline the need for digital inclusivity by advocating for affordable connectivity and advancing digital literacy.

The ROK stresses that these frameworks highlight the importance of upholding human rights and freedoms. Attention is then turned to the issue of digital trust, with the speaker emphasising the need to address online challenges such as disinformation, hate speech, and fake news that pose threats to citizen safety.

The need for individuals to have authority over their data is paramount, with calls for transparency in how their data is collected, processed, and stored. The speech references the Human Rights Council (HRC) resolution on Emerging Digital Technology and Human Rights as a benchmark, offering an already established set of guidelines that matches the vision for the GDC.

In conclusion, the speaker reiterates the ROK’s dedication to supporting a cooperative venture to create a comprehensive global digital norm. They pledge to engage in active discussions and collaborations with other member states and UN advisory bodies on Artificial Intelligence to guarantee the success of this collective effort.

The address advocates for a cohesive strategy in charting the course for our digital future, casting the ROK as an influential contributor eager to lead and shape the global discussion on digital standards and the safeguarding of human rights in the digital realm.

Arguments

The GDC should emphasize the need to accelerate progress in addressing digital economy challenges

Supporting facts:

• Meaningful connectivity is lacking for over one-third of the global population

• COVID-19 showcased the benefits of digital public goods

The GDC should ensure inclusive and participatory governance of the Internet

Supporting facts:

• Support a safe online environment

• Ensure adequate data protection and privacy

Strengthening science, technology, and innovation capacities in developing countries is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Developing countries invest a smaller share of income in innovation

• The potential of various partnerships like South-South, North-South, and Triangle

The GDC should promote increased investment in national innovation systems

Supporting facts:

• Investment is needed not just in R&D, but also in education and innovation financing

• Government support for fundamental research is necessary

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The Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) is urged to accelerate the development of the digital economy, as over one-third of the world’s population remains without meaningful connectivity. The positive implications of digital public goods, spotlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, advocate for the integration of a digital economy in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, focusing on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

The sentiment towards fostering such a digital economy is favourable, signalling the conviction that digital advancements contribute to social progress. In the arena of Internet governance, the GDC is called upon to foster an inclusive and participatory approach. Emphasized are the requirements to maintain a safe online space and to ensure comprehensive data protection and privacy measures.

These points buttress the objectives of SDG 16, which aims to cultivate peace, justice, and strong institutions, incorporating the cyberspace in its scope. The analysis also discloses the gap in innovation investment between developed and developing countries, highlighting the need for a substantial increase in support for science, technology, and innovation in the latter.

This support extends beyond research and development (R&D) to educational systems and innovation financing, which are integral to building resilient national innovation systems. Such comprehensive investments address the aims of both SDG 9 and SDG 17, which promotes the importance of partnerships in achieving these goals.

Moreover, the dialogue on education and innovation systems points to the critical role of government backing for fundamental research. This support is viewed as essential for nurturing national innovation abilities and for providing education that equips future generations to sustain economic growth and innovation.

This strategic emphasis on research and education is key to long-term development, corresponding with SDG 4’s emphasis on quality education and, once more, SDG 9. Tanzania, aligning with the perspectives of Uganda and Botswana as articulated in the G7 and Afghan group statements, showcases a commitment to global cooperation and digital connectivity.

Although lacking in specific supporting facts, Tanzania’s positive sentiment reinforces its endorsement of broader collaboration, aligning with the goals of SDG 17, which stresses the efficacy of partnerships in achieving collective global objectives. Overall, there exists a consensus on the necessity for a comprehensive strategy in closing the digital divide, steering Internet governance, boosting innovation investment, and solidifying global partnerships.

The unifying goal of these strategies is to fulfil the pertinent SDGs, with an optimistic view of the transformative impact of global digital cooperation.

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In an address acknowledging the contributions of the co-facilitators, the speaker underscored the crucial role of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) at a pivotal point in its evolution. Commending the thorough, transparent, and productive process to date, they remained hopeful, citing the positive atmosphere, and framed this period as “make-or-break” for the UN’s relevance and its capacity to tackle modern global challenges.

The speaker presented the stark facts of data proliferation, noting a daily surge of 328 million terabytes and a projected accumulation of 147 zettabytes by the end of 2024. This 23% increase from 2023 poses both opportunities and risks, as the digital space is rife with issues such as the spread of disinformation and the rise of deepfakes.

Emphasising the responsibility of those shaping the GDC, the speaker advised against settling for a bare minimum of values and principles. They called for genuine commitment to our collective responsibilities, suggesting that innovation can also mean utilising existing regulatory initiatives on emergent technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Advocating for a human-centred design of the GDC, the speaker argued that ensuring data privacy and broadening technology access are intrinsically connected to prioritising human welfare in development. The push for a human-centric GDC arises from the conviction that tech and data governance must ultimately benefit humanity.

In conclusion, the speaker pledged ongoing support and contribution during this critical stage of the GDC’s formation, stressing that embedding a human-centric philosophy is vital for the GDC’s successful implementation. The summary uses UK spelling and grammar as specified, ensuring accurate reflection of the original text while strategically integrating long-tail keywords such as “Global Digital Compact development,” “human-centred data governance,” and “regulation of emerging technologies” without compromising the integrity of the summary.

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The delegate praises the establishment of an open, transparent, and inclusive government-led initiative aimed at creating a consensual outcome document to guide the digital space, ensuring it remains open, free, and secure. They assert that the document should remain non-binding, allowing for state flexibility while promoting cooperation.

Following the essence of the Tunis Agenda for the Information Society, the delegate emphasises the need to base this document on foundational principles from international agreements, fostering a digital ecosystem grounded in shared values and accumulated experience. States are urged to commit to avoiding harmful activities that undermine the critical internet infrastructure or the internet’s integrity, which is vital for sustaining digital trust and security.

The delegate advocates for a document that focuses on empowering individuals through the enhancement of digital skills and capabilities, indicating a commitment to equipping people to succeed in the digital era. Emphasising the importance of personal development, the delegate stresses the need for investments in digital public infrastructure to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth.

Data privacy is highlighted as a critical discussion point, with the delegate recommending a balanced approach to protecting individuals’ data and privacy rights amidst the blurring lines between the private and public spheres. Addressing UN internet governance debates, the delegate calls for the preservation of the non-politicised nature of these intergovernmental discussions, indicating the potential for geopolitical tensions to disrupt cooperative digital efforts.

For follow-up mechanisms, the delegate proposes utilising leading international forums, such as the World Summit on the Information Society and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), to ensure international digital policy and governance consistency. Lastly, the delegate commits to actively contributing to discussions and negotiations, aiming to positively influence the outcome and ensure the reflection of their priorities in the final document.

In summary, the delegate’s statement champions a collaborative approach, embracing non-politicisation, allegiance to established international principles, and collective diligence to protect the digital future while empowering individuals and securing digital infrastructures and rights. The text should consistently use UK spelling and grammar conventions, ensuring an accurate reflection of the analysis.

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The representative of the small states group delivered a detailed statement on behalf of 55 small states regarding the formulation of the Global Digital Compact (GDC), emphasising the transformative potential of digital technology to expedite the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tackle global issues, which is particularly crucial for small states that rely on innovation for progress and development.

The group strongly endorses the GDC, advocating for a global framework that ensures digital cooperation with consistency and collective action. They posit that the GDC should enhance existing initiatives, such as the World Summit for the Information Society, to fully exploit digital technologies for societal benefit.

The small states call for a transparent, inclusive, and multi-stakeholder approach in developing the GDC, set to achieve the following outcomes: 1. Capitalise on digital technologies, including AI, to fast-track SDG attainment and address global challenges such as health, climate change, and resource security, promoting digital solutions for public benefit.

2. Guarantee the affordability and accessibility of digital technologies, leading to equitable utilisation by all nations. The GDC should promote capacity building, especially for small states, to overcome digital disparities and inequalities. 3. Establish global digital governance principles and norms to regulate the responsible and ethical deployment of technologies, with particular regard to AI’s pivotal role.

The statement references the interim report of the High-Level Advisory Board on Artificial Intelligence, with an eye on the conclusions of the forthcoming final report. Themes recommended for the GDC include: – Accelerating SDG progress. – Enhancing digital connectivity and inclusion.

– Promoting interoperability and protecting against internet fragmentation and misuse. – Ensuring data protection while fostering cross-border data flows. – Addressing online human rights. – Cultivating digital trust, security, and safety. – Ensuring beneficial AI development and application. – Advocating for digital public goods. – Focussing on overarching issues such as institutional coordination and stakeholder engagement.

The small states suggest that the GDC should have actionable objectives within each theme that combine to create a cohesive global vision for digital cooperation. For example, they suggest an objective for universal, affordable, and meaningful internet access by 2030 to enhance digital connectivity.

These objectives are designed to steer discussions toward concrete commitments and outcomes. In conclusion, the small states group looks forward to continuing dialogue and collaboration with other delegations to fine-tune the GDC. The statement maintains a cooperative, progressive tone, highlighting the focus on applying digital strategies to promote sustainable and inclusive development globally.

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In a gesture of solidarity, Slovenia has aligned itself with the European Union’s declaration, emphasising the vital role of a global digital compact that prioritises human rights. Recognising the ability of digital technologies to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, Slovenia argues for the creation of a compact that ensures inclusive and affordable technology access worldwide to prevent any individual or community from being left behind in the digital transformation.

Slovenia’s commitment to digital safety and confidence is evident in its advocacy for digital literacy and broad participation in the digital space, particularly for marginalised groups who are more acutely affected by the digital divide. Additionally, Slovenia stresses the importance of addressing the specific challenges faced by countries in the Global South, such as unreliable internet connectivity, in the digital compact.

It argues that regulatory policies, especially those pertaining to artificial intelligence, should be tailored to the unique circumstances of digitally emerging regions. The environmental impact of digital technologies is also a concern; Slovenia calls for a digital compact that adopts environmentally sustainable practices in the entire lifespan of digital technology, from development to disposal, including the reduction of energy consumption, e-waste, and carbon footprint associated with technology.

Slovenia emphasises the implementation of robust monitoring frameworks to evaluate the progress of the compact, advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach that involves governments, international organisations, civil society, academia, and the private sector. These collaborations are intended to pool resources and expertise, ensuring that the global digital compact serves as a practical tool for digital equity and sustainability.

In summary, Slovenia’s statement reflects its belief in the power of collective action in the digital realm and calls for a more inclusive, environmentally cautious digital development strategy. It underlines the need to cater to diverse global populations, particularly prioritising those in the Global South, thus reinforcing the concept of digital equity.

All text reflects UK spelling and grammar standards as requested.

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South Africa has reiterated its pledge to global digital cooperation, aligning with the G77, through Uganda, and the Africa group, represented by Botswana. The nation emphasises the need for a digital future that champions openness, security, and prioritises human well-being.

This vision aligns with the principles of the UN Charter and supports the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. Echoing the Geneva Declaration of Principles from the WSIS, South Africa maintains a people-centred and development-focused digital framework. Addressing the global digital divide is vital, and the country proposes a governance structure reflecting the UN Secretary-General’s advisory group recommendations on artificial intelligence.

South Africa argues for recognising digital public infrastructure as a global public good and highlights the need to rectify imbalances in digital technology access, infrastructure, and data skills. A multi-faceted approach including technology transfer, capability enhancement, and infrastructural upgrades is suggested to address these inequalities.

As chair of the ITU’s Council Working Group on WSIS and SDGs, South Africa recognises the WSIS’s transition into a global community that fosters dialogue and partnerships, aiding in achieving the SDGs. The nation believes that the GDC should build upon, not duplicate, the work of WSIS, with the WSIS ideally positioned to coordinate and implement GDC initiatives.

In summary, South Africa views the Summit of the Future as a critical point for developing a cohesive Global Digital Compact. Collaborative efforts are essential for tackling challenges and striving for an inclusive, equitable digital future. South Africa advocates leveraging the well-established WSIS frameworks alongside the innovative potential of the GDC.

Arguments

Connectivity is a necessary precondition for inclusivity in digital cooperation

Supporting facts:

• Spain aligns with the EU statement emphasizing inclusivity and connectivity for global digital cooperation.

Protection of all citizens’ rights online is critical, particularly for individuals in vulnerable situations

Supporting facts:

• The pact should ensure protection against harmful content, high privacy, safety, and security standards, especially for minors.

Digital literacy and skills development should be prioritized, alongside adapting digital content to local realities

Supporting facts:

• Inclusivity implies the need for digital technologies and content to accommodate language diversity and vulnerable groups.

The compact should underline the role of digital technologies in supporting human rights and the 2030 Agenda

Supporting facts:

• Spain advocates for a digital compact that reinforces the commitment to human rights and sustainable development goals.

Advocates for a well-structured global data governance model ensuring privacy, trust, and access for the public interest

Supporting facts:

• The compact should facilitate consensus on a global data governance model preserving privacy, trust, and beneficial data usage.

Support for updating labor rights and promoting just and fair digital transitions

Supporting facts:

• Spain emphasizes the importance of adapting social and labor rights to ensure equity in the digital advancements.

Advocates for responsible AI development, avoiding bias and managing risks

Supporting facts:

• Spain calls for international discussions on AI governance to avoid bias and to manage potential risks.

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Spain’s proactive stance in the digital sphere is marked by a strong, positive commitment to boosting global digital cooperation and connectivity. It aligns with the European Union’s standpoint, which emphasises inclusivity and the necessity for collective access to digital advancements, regardless of socio-economic or geographical barriers, as a fundamental prerequisite for meaningful digital collaboration.

This stance illustrates Spain’s belief in the intertwined relationship between inclusivity and connectivity. In the realm of online rights, Spain underscores the imperative of protecting individuals’ digital spaces, particularly for minors and those in vulnerable contexts. The country advocates for a digital framework that guards against harmful content and maintains stringent privacy, safety, and security standards, underscoring its dedication to crafting a secure and respectful cyberspace for all users.

Further, Spain champions digital literacy and bespoke skills development, with an emphasis on tailoring digital content to different languages and needs of marginalised groups, to ensure genuine inclusivity. This highlights the aim to not only provide access to digital tools but also ensure that content resonates with and accommodates diverse audiences.

Spain also encourages a digital compact that fortifies the commitment to human rights in harmony with the Sustainable Development Goals, indicating a strategic approach to align digital technology with the broader targets of human rights protection and socio-economic progress. Data governance is a pivotal theme, where Spain calls for a consensus-driven global model.

This balance aims to protect personal privacy, build trust in digital systems, and enable public-interest uses of data, acknowledging the intricacy of balancing various needs in data governance. Regarding the digital transition, Spain envisages a revision of social and labour rights to reflect equity in digital progression, advocating for transitions that are fair and democratic, aware of potential digital technology-induced disruptions in the job market.

On AI governance, Spain is proactive in fostering international discourse. It opts for responsible and ethical AI, emphasising the prevention of biases and effective risk management, reinforcing its dedication to maintaining ethical integrity within technological evolution. Finally, Spain’s support for effective multilateralism and recognition of the United Nations’ role in digital governance illustrates a commitment to a co-operative international approach in handling digital technologies, advocating regulations that ensure equitable and sustainable technological integration on a global stage.

In summation, Spain’s approach to digital concerns reflects a complex, forward-thinking strategy, prioritising inclusivity, rights protection, digital literacy, and principled governance. Its partnership with the EU and advocacy for global cooperation through the UN shows an eagerness for constructive engagement, aiming to steer the digital era’s challenges towards the maximisation of its potentials.

The text maintains UK spelling and grammar throughout, creating an accurate and reflective expanded summary of Spain’s digital strategy and philosophy.

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The speaker began by thanking the organisers for both arranging the meeting and providing guiding questions, which they found incredibly helpful for structuring their discussion. They addressed the first two questions by acknowledging the historical importance of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), which convened two decades prior.

The summit was pivotal, having established a consensus among global leaders on a vision for a digital world that is people-oriented, inclusive, and development-centric. The principles established in the WSIS conferences in 2003 and 2005 were highlighted as a strong foundation for fostering a unified vision geared towards overcoming the digital divide, exploiting digital technologies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), safeguarding human rights, and ensuring a secure digital future for all.

For questions three and four, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the governance of data in shaping both our digital environment and wider society was stressed. The advent of new technologies, it was acknowledged, comes with immense potential to benefit humankind.

To tap into this potential, it is essential to set forth guidelines that guarantee fair access to computing resources, data, and scientific research. Concurrently, there is a need to mitigate ethical concerns and human rights risks that are inherent to the deployment of such technologies.

The concept of ‘meaningful connectivity’ was further explored, explained as surpassing basic technical specifications. It was posited that connectivity is truly meaningful when it is affordable, accessible, enhances digital literacy, and is coupled with increased digital skills among populations. Achieving this necessitates a regulatory framework capable of adapting to the fast-changing digital landscape.

Discussing the fifth question, the significance of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) was underlined. The GDC was portrayed as an essential chance to reaffirm our dedication to a digital world that is human-centred, and to update our collective accords to effectively meet new and emerging challenges.

The WSIS structure was suggested as the most suitable framework for managing the commitments and initiatives following the GDC. Within this structure, entities like the Commission on Science and Technology for Development, the WSIS Action Lines, and the WSIS Forum were mentioned as effective instruments for these tasks.

The forthcoming WSIS event in Geneva, co-hosted by Switzerland, was emphasised as a key event later in the year. In conclusion, the speaker endorsed the UN Internet Governance Forum as the optimal platform for the multilateral review and the ensuing actions concerning the GDC.

They promised to support the continued development of this compact and noted that its successful implementation will necessitate ongoing adjustment in line with the dynamic nature of global events and technological progress. This final point accentuated awareness of the fluidity within the digital realm and the imperative for governance mechanisms to be adaptable and anticipatory with respect to changes in this domain.

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In developing the Global Digital Compact (GDC), it is crucial to incorporate a wide range of perspectives from diverse stakeholders, reflecting the essence of global digital cooperation. Care must be taken to avoid overlapping with existing agreements, such as Chapter 3 of the Pact for the Future, to ensure the GDC’s distinct and pertinent contributions.

Efforts should focus on aligning the GDC with various national, regional, and industry-specific governance models, championing diversity and inclusiveness to foster a shared sense of ownership and commitment among diverse parties. This challenge, given the varied state policies on digital issues, is essential for more unified and effective international cooperation.

The GDC’s success hinges on harmonising the enhancement of digital access and connectivity with protecting fundamental rights such as privacy. The GDC should articulate clear, achievable goals that align with and complement existing global frameworks, avoiding any dissonance. Resource mobilisation is fundamental for realising the GDC’s objectives, including providing financial support, expertise, and technical assistance.

Utilising existing UN mechanisms and agencies, including the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), could be instrumental in closing the digital divide and fostering sustainable development. Core principles of inclusivity, openness, transparency, interoperability, and the unyielding respect for human rights should underpin the GDC.

It should embrace freedom of expression, the right to privacy, and the principle of non-discrimination, resonating with the UN Charter, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In terms of thematic focus, the GDC must pay close attention to the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), addressing the management of risks and the utilisation of opportunities.

The ethical deployment of AI in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and employment is pivotal. Safeguarding privacy, confronting biases, and fostering a consistent dialogue and ethical framework for AI are key for building trust, transparency, and accountability within the influential global digital landscape.

To conclude, the GDC should adopt a balanced approach to global digital cooperation, prioritising joint goals, promoting equity, protecting privacy and human rights, and acknowledging the significant impact and possibilities of emerging technologies like AI.

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In the statement made on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the speaker opened by expressing appreciation for the co-facilitators’ initiative in fostering a collaborative atmosphere for the creation of a global digital compact. There was a clear emphasis on the necessity for the compact to be steered by member states, affirming the principle of state sovereignty in guiding their development paths—a stance consistent with prior communications.

The speaker called for enhanced procedural transparency, particularly post the third roadmap reading, highlighting the operational needs of smaller delegations, which require effective domestic coordination due to diverse and intricate internal processes. The group stressed the need for sufficient time between roadmap readings to allow for comprehensive internal state consultations, deemed especially vital between the release of the draft and its initial reading.

There was a call for further clarifications on the negotiation process, with a focus on precise details about the scope, timing, and logistical details of future negotiation-related meetings and consultations. The speaker expressed dissatisfaction with the issues paper, which failed to address priority areas for the Group of 77 and China, such as the essential aspect of technology transfer from developed to developing nations.

Additionally, the group voiced concerns over the possibility of new review and follow-up mechanisms duplicating existing structures. Despite having provided detailed written contributions previously, with realistic proposals to strengthen digital cooperation and bridge the digital divide, there was worry these submissions were not entirely reflected.

These proposals also addressed queries from the co-facilitators, which the group hoped would be factored into the Zero Draft. The statement concluded with an acknowledgment of the complexity of global digital cooperation issues, asserting that the compact should focus on development aspects and harness digital technologies to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Priorities highlighted were addressing digital divides, preventing internet fragmentation, enhancing digital infrastructure investment, and leveraging digital technology to eradicate extreme poverty. Combatting disinformation and misinformation, and reinforcing data protection, were also pinpointed as crucial. The address conveyed a vision and concerns regarding the need for global digital policies to complement international development cooperation goals, advocating for inclusivity and respect for the diverse capacities and necessities of member states.

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Ukraine has praised the efforts of Sweden and Zambia in furthering discussions on the Global Digital Compact, reiterating the European Union’s stance. The country has voiced its firm support for ongoing negotiations aiming to establish the Compact, envisaging it as a key structure to encourage an open, free, secure, and human-centric digital realm upheld by universal human rights.

Ukraine envisages the Compact as a means to expedite progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In highlighting the significance of equal educational opportunities, Ukraine has advocated for strengthening or implementing public digital literacy programmes. The nation recognises the necessity of providing lifelong learning opportunities for workers and the emphasis on transdisciplinary skills to adapt to the evolving technological landscape.

Regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies, Ukraine emphasises a need for transparency, safety, and human accountability to preclude misuse and build trust. Digital security emerges as a paramount concern, with Ukraine stressing the urgency to enhance cybersecurity across the board.

In addressing the pressing challenge of misinformation, Ukraine suggests holding purveyors of false information accountable. Additionally, Ukraine notes the potential deterrent effect of the Compact on digital criminal activities. Acknowledging the severe risks cyber threats pose to state actors and public services, particularly those aimed at critical and informational infrastructures, Ukraine underscores the essential requirement for global collaboration to mitigate these risks.

With continuous attacks in both physical and cyber realms, Ukraine is actively seeking to strengthen and improve its informational systems. In their conclusive remarks, Ukraine has called on the international community to ensure the Global Digital Compact’s principles and strategies authentically represent current digital dilemmas and possess the foresight to prevent future complications.

They assert that an actionable, forward-thinking initiative within the Compact is crucial to address global requirements effectively. Ukraine’s call to action stresses their belief in the necessity of global cooperation to forge a resilient and secure digital future.

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has articulated a comprehensive vision for the advancement of global technology, emphasising the need for international cooperation and the Global Digital Compact (GDC) as essential factors in this pursuit. The UAE’s position is structured around three main pillars: Firstly, the UAE advocates for a solid framework to facilitate international coordination, which will maximise technology’s role in promoting global peace and prosperity.

This involves creating new platforms for inclusive dialogue with a diverse range of stakeholders, including private entities and academic institutions, to harness collective intelligence and resources for rapid technological advancement. The UAE highlights the GDC as an instrumental mechanism in organising these collaborations and advocates for technology transfer and knowledge exchange between nations to ensure transparency, responsible behaviour, and accountability in the digital domain.

Secondly, the UAE highlights the importance of leveraging emerging technologies, such as open-source AI, aligning with the United Nations Secretary-General’s vision for a digital future that embodies openness, security, and human-centric values. Through the GDC, the UAE supports the development of responsible AI to drive progress in sectors like development, education, and economic growth.

Concurrently, the UAE acknowledges the risks associated with tech misuse—such as hate speech, extremism, and disinformation—and supports the implementation of governance over AI applications without stifling technological development or related research. Lastly, the UAE calls for a globally inclusive digital compact to proactively confront the challenges and persistent inequalities of the digital age.

The approach prioritises inclusivity for marginalised groups, including women, girls, and individuals with disabilities. The nation recognises the vital contribution of youth in technological innovation and stresses their involvement in digital cooperation frameworks. In conclusion, the UAE appreciates the efforts of the GDC co-facilitators in including member states, observers, and relevant entities in the Zero Draft’s preparation.

The UAE’s commentary demonstrates their insightful grasp of the complex challenges and opportunities of the digital revolution, endorsing a collaborative, inclusive, and ethical approach to digital policy, positioning the UAE as a progressive player in shaping the global digital future.

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The UK has articulated firm support for the Global Digital Compact (GDC), emphasising that its foundation should align with the fundamental tenets of the UN Charter, Agenda 2030, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Central to this endorsement is the conviction that the Compact should adopt a human-centred approach to safeguard individual liberties and drive sustainable development in the technological realm.

A key element of the UK’s stance is the call for international cooperation, considered indispensable in light of the cross-border nature of digital technologies. The aspiration is for the GDC to acknowledge and address the differential impacts that digital transformation can have on various societal groups.

The UK advocates for an inclusive Compact that engages all sectors of society and underscores the necessity of rule of law and robust governance as pillars. Included in the UK’s proposals are strategies to boost digital connectivity by fostering digital skills and instituting supportive regulatory frameworks.

Emphasising digital inclusivity, the UK highlights the imperative to commit to the betterment of women, girls, children, and people with disabilities. The UK’s vision for the internet as a free, open, peaceful and secure space champions support for multi-stakeholder models of internet governance.

Safety and privacy are paramount, with an encouragement for age verification solutions that cater to child safety online without breaching human rights. To combat misinformation and disinformation, the UK recommends bolstering user resilience and competencies, as opposed to mere content restriction.

The UK also underlines the necessity for establishing comprehensive, interoperable global data protection standards, compatible with frameworks like those of the OECD. Regarding artificial intelligence (AI), the UK’s position on the GDC advocates for AI systems that are secure, ethical, and reliable.

It promotes the development of inclusive and evidence-based understandings of AI risks, drawing on the UK’s AI Safety Summit, the OECD, and G-PAY initiatives. The UK suggests that, before defining specific mechanisms for the GDC’s implementation, a clearer consensus on its content is needed.

Nonetheless, leveraging pre-existing intergovernmental and multi-stakeholder mechanisms could act as an initial step. Effective realisation of the GDC’s aims will require collaborative efforts among a variety of stakeholders, thus the UK stresses the importance of continuous engagement as the GDC evolves.

Overall, this position showcases the UK’s nuanced approach to digital governance, highlighting the need to harmonise regulation with the broad-based empowerment of society to partake in the digital economy in a secure and inclusive manner. It aims to ensure the furtherance of technological innovation alongside the protection of human rights and adherence to ethical norms.

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Good morning, The United States has expressed robust support for the ongoing development of a rights-respecting Global Digital Compact (GDC), emphasising the need for inclusivity and transparency. This initiative aims to establish shared principles guiding our digital future’s evolution. The US has recognised the considerable progress made during the GDC’s consultation phase, valuing contributions from the co-facilitators’ issues paper, and highlights the importance of building upon this foundational work.

In its submissions to the GDC process, the United States presents a comprehensive vision and sets forth priorities for the Compact, anchoring these in a reconfirmation of commitments to foundational international treaties and human rights documents, such as the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The US posits that digital technologies should support the human rights pillar and advocates specifically for the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also identifies tackling the digital divide, particularly concerning women and girls, as crucial, advocating for meaningful connectivity that ensures safety, inclusivity, and equity.

The United States acknowledges the significant work carried out by the World Summit on the Information Society within the UN framework over the past two decades, using it as a benchmark to enhance Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as a tool for development within the GDC structure.

It stresses the imperative for international discourse on Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting the potential role of the United Nations in ensuring AI’s development and deployment align with shared values and established international norms. In this context, the US values the engagement with other member states on its proposed UNGA resolution on AI, considering consensus here as critical for our collective digital future.

However, the US has explicitly stated its opposition to the creation of new institutions or redundant processes within the Compact framework. It advocates for utilising the expertise and mandates of existing UN entities to support the GDC outcomes. The support for the Internet Governance Forum is reaffirmed, with anticipation for the General Assembly’s WSIS Plus 20 review, indicating a preference for existing channels and assessments over new structures.

In conclusion, the United States champions a GDC grounded in human rights and a shared, stakeholder-inclusive approach to digital development. While recognising the transformative power of digital technologies and the necessity for their equitable dissemination, the US emphasises the importance of alignment with existing international frameworks.

It encourages discussions on AI and opposes superfluous institutional expansion within the GDC, favouring the strengthening of the current UN capabilities. This stance reflects a comprehensive objective to ensure that the digital future is navigated effectively while respecting established international norms and guidelines.

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The statement from the Republic of Zambia, in concert with positions held by Uganda on behalf of G77 and China, and Botswana representing the Africa Group, underlines the significance of the Digital Global Compact (DGC) in shaping the trajectory of digital governance.

Zambia affirms that its support for the DGC stems from a desire to ensure digital transformation is inclusive and avoids widening existing disparities. The aim is to foster a digital environment that promotes rights and hastens the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals globally.

Zambia’s delegation articulates the need for a steadfast commitment to human rights within the realm of technology, calling for the protection of those with different abilities in the utilisation of digital technologies. The delegation draws attention to the imperative of bridging the digital divide by placing priority on initiatives that extend affordable and reliable internet connectivity to rural and traditionally marginalised communities.

The importance of enhancing digital literacy and capacity-building programmes is emphasised. Such programmes are intended to enable individuals and communities to engage with the digital economy effectively, thereby harnessing the benefits of the digital revolution. The delegation also addresses the gender-digital gap, advocating for the promotion of technology transfers to mitigate this issue.

With regards to data governance, Zambia advocates for transparent and accountable frameworks, highlighting key practices like securing informed consent, collecting minimal data, and ensuring nondiscriminatory algorithmic decision-making. These practices are deemed essential for upholding ethical standards in data management. Enhanced standardisation of cross-border data flow is also promoted to prevent international disputes.

The statement underscores the necessity of cautiously developing, deploying, and using emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biometrics, and surveillance technologies. Establishing standards in these areas is viewed as a means to guard against prejudice, bias, and violations of human rights in both the creation and application of technology.

Zambia acknowledges the need for investments in structures that support the digital innovation ecosystem, encouraging internet governance forums as spaces that foster community engagement and multi-stakeholder collaborations. Such partnerships are vital for a dynamic and sustainable digital environment. In summation, the Zambian delegation’s call for interoperability is pivotal, promoting a system such as the DGC to facilitate effective public-private partnerships via digital infrastructure and policies.

This interoperability is seen as essential for leveraging the full spectrum of the global digital landscape, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable development worldwide.